NEWTON, N.J. (Sussex County) — The Sussex County Board of County Commissioners announced Sunday that it is partnering with community organizations, faith-based groups, and local food banks to ensure residents continue to have access to food and basic necessities following a lapse in federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) funding caused by the ongoing government shutdown.
As of Saturday, Nov. 1, federal funds for SNAP have not been replenished, leaving approximately 4,000 Sussex County residents who rely on the program temporarily without additional benefits. According to the New Jersey Department of Human Services, any remaining funds on residents’ Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards will remain available. Participants can check their balances at NJFamiliesFirst.com or by calling 1-800-997-3333.
Recognizing the potential strain on local pantries and service agencies, the county is coordinating a regionwide response to assess inventory, identify areas of greatest need, and plan emergency food distributions.
“Sussex County has always come together in times of uncertainty,” said Commissioner Deputy Director Jill Space. “Traditionally, this is the time of year when our local food banks begin to fill their shelves for the holidays. We’re asking residents to be a little extra generous this season, whether that means buying a few additional non-perishable items on your next grocery trip or donating a $10 gift card to a local grocery store. Every contribution helps make sure that no family goes without a meal in Sussex County.”
The county’s annual Stuff the Bus Food Drive is scheduled for Friday, Nov. 21 through Sunday, Nov. 23 at multiple ShopRite locations throughout Sussex County. Donations of canned goods, boxed meals, and household staples will be accepted, and local coordinators will be available to assist residents in need. Additional food drives are being planned earlier in November, with details to be announced soon.
“Our priority is to support local families while maintaining fiscal discipline and efficiency,” Space added. “By partnering with community organizations, churches, and civic groups, we can meet this challenge locally. Neighbors helping neighbors, without waiting for bureaucracy and Trenton to catch up.”
In addition to pantry support, the county is working with nonprofit partners to provide hot meal services for residents and seniors unable to prepare food on their own.
Residents seeking assistance or wishing to volunteer can visit www.Sussex.nj.us and navigate to Departments → Health and Human Services → Division of Social Services for the latest updates.
“Our community is strong, compassionate and self-reliant,” Space said. “That’s what makes Sussex County special. We take care of one another.”
