See this Article for Context: https://www.syracuse.com/news/2025/12/thieves-hack-syracuse-families-food-stamp-accounts-leaving-them-broke-for-the-holidays.html

Campaign Description

In early December, numerous Syracuse families discovered that their SNAP (food stamp) benefits had been stolen—often within minutes or hours of being deposited. For many, this wiped out their entire monthly grocery budget at the start of the holiday season.

These thefts were not the result of user error. The transactions occurred outside the area, and families were left with no meaningful recourse. In prior years, stolen benefits could be reimbursed; that is no longer the case. As a result, families who rely on SNAP for basic nutrition are being forced to depend on food pantries and emergency assistance.

This fundraiser is intended to provide direct, short-term grocery relief to Syracuse-area families who can document that their SNAP benefits were stolen in December.

How the Funds Will Be Used

Funds raised will be used to purchase gift cards at local supermarkets and department stores, and will be distributed directly to affected families who choose to apply and can provide basic documentation showing that their SNAP benefits were fraudulently withdrawn.

Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis and funds will be distributed weekly until their are either no funds left or no applicants left.

Each approved applicant will receive an equal share of the funds available for that distribution period, up to the amount they lost.

This is not intended to replace public benefits or reimbursements, but to help families bridge an immediate and unexpected gap.

If there is any money left over when the campaign closes, the remainder will be donated to the Food Bank of Central New York (https://foodbankcny.org/)

Transparency & Administration

This effort is being organized independently by The Long Law Firm, PLLC with the goal of moving funds quickly and fairly to affected families.

Basic verification will be required (for example, a transaction history showing the unauthorized withdrawals). No sensitive personal information will be published. Aggregate updates on funds raised and distributions will be posted here.

If donations exceed verified need, remaining funds will be directed to local food pantries or related emergency food assistance, and that allocation will be disclosed.

How You Can Help

Donate if you’re able

Share this campaign with others in Central New York

If you or someone you know was affected by SNAP theft in Syracuse, application instructions will be posted here shortly

Even modest contributions can help families put food on the table while longer-term solutions are pursued.

Thank you for helping neighbors who were put in an impossible position through no fault of their own.