The New Jersey Business & Industry Association (NJBIA) is supporting an emergency food drive organized by the New Jersey Reentry Corporation (NJRC) in response to an imminent cutoff of federal food-aid benefits. The cutoff, scheduled for November 1, comes as a result of the ongoing federal government shutdown and will affect NJRC clients who rely on these benefits for groceries and prepared meals.
Food donations, including non-perishable items, prepared meals, and supermarket gift cards, are being accepted from religious organizations, grocers, wholesalers, restaurants, and other businesses. These contributions will be distributed through NJRC reentry centers across the state and at the NJRC training center in Kearny to assist those most at risk.
Former Governor James McGreevey, chairman of the board at NJRC, described the effort as an “urgent humanitarian effort,” noting that many low-income participants will soon lack resources to feed themselves and their children.
The food drive is seeking canned vegetables, beans, soups; rice, cereal, pasta; peanut butter; shelf-stable milk and baby formula; as well as cooking oil and spices. Those interested in donating can contact Lacyann Francis at lfrancis@njreentry.org or call 551-220-4472. For larger donations, donors are asked to specify quantities and preferred pickup times.
According to recent figures, more than 800,000 low-income residents in New Jersey depend on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) for grocery purchases. Due to Congress not passing a budget during the government shutdown, SNAP funding is set to expire on November 1.
This week saw attorneys general from 25 states—including New Jersey—file a lawsuit against the Trump administration. The suit aims to compel the U.S. Department of Agriculture to use contingency funds so SNAP benefits can continue in affected states. A federal judge is expected to hear arguments in this case today.
NJRC is a nonprofit organization offering comprehensive support services for formerly incarcerated individuals, veterans, and people leaving addiction treatment centers. Its programs address needs such as healthcare access, housing assistance, legal aid, employment opportunities, and skills training with the goal of reducing recidivism.
