I like the refer to the current group applying to college “recession survivors.” These kids grew up during the recession which was very regional. Some areas were hit much harder than others. I understand if you (or anyone else) wasn’t able to save for college. I know in our family if the economy was what it is now while our kids were growing up, we would have been able to save more.
I don’t think you will get any financial aid but it sounds like you will get merit money. SUNY will be your best value but you never know what merit will do for you at private schools. Good luck.