Federal Stimulus Increases NY Food Stamps

New York, NY —

Low income New Yorkers are now reaping the benefits of federal stimulus funds. Food stamps went up 13 percent today. That means an additional $40 a month for families like Ann Valdez and her son.

VALDEZ: I guess the best thing I can say is this becomes a little better because now I can eat maybe a couple more steaks and have a little more beef in the house rather than to eat chicken all the time.

The extra food stamps are supposed to increase spending at local businesses. In all, the stimulus funds add $25 million a month to the city's low income households.

A tax credit for working New Yorkers also recently went into effect. Those who make under $75,000 will receive a maximum of $400 to be dispensed in small increments through paychecks.