SUSSEX COUNTY, N.J. — The Sussex County Division of Social Services will kick off its 18th annual Stuff the Bus campaign against hunger from Nov. 21 through Nov. 23, 2025, with the support of ShopRite and Provident Bank.
Donations of nonperishable food and turkeys will be accepted throughout the weekend to help restock the shelves of the county’s Social Services food pantry. Sussex County Skylands Ride buses will be on-site at participating locations to collect donations as part of the “stuff the bus” effort.
Stuff the Bus helps feed countless residents in need each year, with thousands of pounds of food collected from generous community members and businesses. The need has grown in recent years due to ongoing economic pressures. The pantry serves approximately 14,000 residents annually, including seniors on fixed incomes, working families, and individuals who need temporary assistance.
“If you are out and about the weekend before Thanksgiving, please consider donating at one of the six locations,” organizers said in a statement. “The need has never been greater due to so many economic factors.”
The pantry is especially in need of peanut butter, jelly, tuna, canned meals, cereal, boxed mashed potatoes, pasta and sauce, canned fruits and vegetables, hearty soups, ramen noodles, and healthy snacks such as granola bars. Donations of toiletries, personal hygiene items, and baby supplies are also welcome.
Donations will be accepted at the following times and locations:
Friday, Nov. 21 (4–6 p.m.)
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Provident Bank, 7 Town Center Drive, Sparta Township
Saturday, Nov. 22 (9 a.m.–5 p.m.) and Sunday, Nov. 23 (9 a.m.–3 p.m.)
- ShopRite of Byram, 90-80 Route 206 North, Byram Township
- ShopRite of Franklin, 270 Route 23, Franklin Borough
- ShopRite of Newton, 127 Water Street (Route 206), Newton
- ShopRite of Sparta, 18 North Village Boulevard, Sparta Township
- ShopRite of Sussex, 1 Wiebel Plaza, Sussex
Those unable to drop off food during event hours can make special arrangements by calling 973-383-3600. Updated information about the food drive is available at www.sussex.nj.us.
Residents in need of food assistance can visit the Division of Social Services at 83 Spring Street in Newton, Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
