We finally know when weed sales will start in New York

After months of planning and preparation, New York is finally ready for recreational marijuana sales. In a prepared statement Wednesday, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced that the first legal cannabis sales will take place on December 29.

Hochul also shared plans for the future of the cannabis industry, which hopes to provide opportunities for communities affected by the War on Drugs and fund schools and communities.

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“We charted a course just nine months ago to put the New York adult cannabis market on the right track by prioritizing equity, and now we’re delivering on that goal,” Hochul told ABC7. “The industry will continue to grow from here, creating inclusive opportunities in every corner of New York State, with proceeds going to our schools and revitalizing communities.”

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The sale begins at the Housing Works Cannabis Co. dispensary, which is located at the Manhattan location of Housing Works, a nonprofit organization with several thrift stores across the city that provides services to formerly incarcerated people who are using AIDS/HIV live, and more. They were one of the first groups to receive some of New York’s first retail cannabis licenses that prioritize social justice.

All sales from the pharmacy are forwarded to the non-profit organization.

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Charles King, CEO of Housing Works, said her pharmacy will continue to support the nonprofit’s goals. “At our core, we are a healing community dedicated to providing New Yorkers with housing, healthcare and careers education programs. This opportunity will not only give our team the resources to further our overall mission, but also to showcase and enhance products from LGBTQ+, BIPOC and women-owned cannabis brands across the state.”

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“We are committed to taking the lead as a social justice model for the American cannabis industry, particularly with our hiring practices and continued support for individuals and communities disproportionately affected by the unjust war on drugs,” said Natasha Nugent, the manager of the Bloomberg business.

Housing Works Cannabis Co. will be open daily and will offer pickup and delivery services for buyers.