Union County Announces Countywide Food Drive to Support Local Families During Federal Shutdown

The Union County Board of County Commissioners today announced the launch of a countywide food drive "Stock the Shelves," to support residents who may be experiencing hardship as a result of the ongoing federal government shutdown, including those affected by the temporary interruption of November SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits and federal employees currently out of work. The County is coordinating this effort to help restock community food pantries and assist families, seniors, and individuals in need in the days ahead.

Beginning Monday, November 3rd, residents are encouraged to donate non-perishable food and essential household items at designated drop-off sites across Union County. Additional locations will be added on a rolling basis as community partners participate.

"We know this situation is creating uncertainty for many families," said Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. "Union County is taking action to ensure our residents have support while federal benefits are interrupted. We're asking those who are able to donate to join us in this effort. Together, we can help keep our community strong."

Initial County Drop-Off Locations
• Union County Prosecutor's Office - 32 Rahway Avenue, Elizabeth
• Union County Public Safety Building - 400 N. Avenue E., Westfield
• Union County Department of Public Works & Engineering - 2371 South Avenue, Scotch Plains

A continually updated list of drop-off sites will be available at: www.ucnj.org/food-drive.

"Across Union County, our food pantries and community organizations are doing everything they can to meet increased demand," said Commissioner Sergio Granados, Liaison to the Union County Human Services Advisory Council. "This food drive is about making sure they are not doing it alone. I want to thank our residents for always stepping up - this is what Union County is about. When we come together as neighbors helping neighbors, we ensure that no one in our community is left without support."

Please Note: Union County is only accepting food and essential household items as donations. This is a list of acceptable items:

Canned Goods

• Vegetables (corn, peas, carrots, green beans)
• Fruits (in juice or light syrup)
• Meats (tuna, chicken, salmon, ham)
• Beans (black, kidney, chickpeas, baked beans)
• Soups, stews, and chili
• Tomato sauce and diced tomatoes

Dry Goods & Grains

• Rice (white, brown, or instant)
• Pasta and noodles
• Macaroni and cheese
• Instant mashed potatoes
• Dry beans or lentils
• Cereal and oatmeal

Pantry Staples

• Peanut butter and jelly
• Flour, sugar, and cornmeal
• Cooking oil
• Pancake mix and syrup
• Shelf-stable milk or milk alternatives
• Coffee, tea, or hot cocoa mix

Snacks & Ready-to-Eat Items

• Crackers, granola bars, trail mix
• Fruit cups, applesauce, pudding cups

Personal Care & Household Items

• Soap, toothpaste, shampoo, deodorant
• Feminine hygiene products
• Toilet paper and paper towels

Baby Care Essentials

• Diapers (all sizes)
• Baby wipes
• Baby formula and infant cereal
• Baby food (in jars or pouches)

All donations should be non-perishable, unopened, and within expiration dates.

If anyone is interested in being a drop-off location, please email: [email protected]. The full list of drop-off locations will be displayed and updated at www.ucnj.org/food-drive .

If you would like to make a financial contribution, please donate directly to the Community FoodBank of New Jersey, which supports hunger relief organizations across Union County: https://cfbnj.org/.

For more information, please contact Judith Guest at (908) 527-4388 or via email at [email protected].