Attorney General Letitia James delivers baby formula to New York families in need

April 4, 2024 Robert Abruzzese, Courthouse Editor

AG James, Met Council CEO David Greenfield and volunteers assemble baby supply care packages with baby formula for low-income parents. Photo courtesy of the Office of the Attorney General

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Attorney General Letitia James distributed 4,668 cans of baby formula to families across New York City on Tuesday. This was in response to her investigation into Walgreens for price gouging in 2022, which led to a settlement that required the pharmacy to donate over 9,500 cans of formula to New Yorkers, plus an additional $50,000 penalty.

The 2022 shortage, triggered by a manufacturing plant closure and subsequent recall, saw desperate parents facing inflated prices for essential baby nutrition.

Attorney General James’ office launched an investigation into Walgreens after receiving numerous complaints, at the time, about the skyrocketing costs of baby formula, revealing that the company had unjustly raised prices on infant formula by more than 10 percent and, in some instances, more than 70 percent.

“Price gouging of baby formula when parents are desperate to feed their children amid a national baby food shortage is illegal and unconscionable,” said James. “Parents should never have to worry about feeding their babies because companies are taking advantage of a national emergency to raise prices.

“Today, hundreds of families will be able to get free baby formula from an agreement my office reached with Walgreens for price gouging,” James continued. “I am proud to deliver this baby formula to the Met Council, which works day in and day out to help those who need it most.”

The formula, valued at approximately $150,000 wholesale, was delivered to the Metropolitan Council (Met Council), a key nonprofit organization in New York City dedicated to supporting vulnerable populations. The Met Council, known for its extensive network of food pantries and various social services, will oversee the distribution of the formula, significantly aiding families in need.

David Greenfield, CEO of Met Council, expressed gratitude towards Attorney General James for her decisive action and explained the high cost of baby formula and the considerable impact this donation will have on the community.

“We are so grateful to Attorney General Letitia James for the opportunity to give out more than 4,600 containers of baby formula to the neediest New Yorkers,” Greenfield said. “Having a baby is wonderful, but it’s also incredibly expensive, and baby formula is one of the most expensive items that babies need. This event will go a long way towards helping babies and families who need it.”

Attorney General James has been at the forefront of combating price gouging, ensuring that New Yorkers are protected from unfair price increases on essential goods. Her office has previously secured significant settlements and delivered essential supplies to New Yorkers.