N.Y. Second Class Cities Law § 173

§ 173. City owner of supplies. The city shall continue to be the owner\nof supplies furnished to any poor person or applicant for relief until\nthe same are consumed. If any person to whom the same shall be furnished\nshall sell or exchange the same for money or intoxicating liquors or in\nany way dispose of the same other than in the manner directed, such\nconduct shall be deemed a misdemeanor.\n