CARE Center of New Jersey warns of rising food insecurity as federal aid pause looms
ROCKAWAY, N.J. (Morris County) — The CARE Center of New Jersey is warning of a sharp rise in food insecurity at its Food for HOPE™ pantry, as a possible federal government shutdown threatens to halt Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits and push even more families into crisis.
The Rockaway-based nonprofit reported a recent doubling in the number of families seeking emergency food support. Officials said the surge is straining resources just as the pantry prepares for its annual Thanksgiving food distribution, one of the largest holiday food relief events in the state.
“More families are coming in who’ve never needed help before,” said Dr. David Ireland, founder of the CARE Center of New Jersey. “With federal aid going on pause, we anticipate the lines will grow, the shelves will empty faster, and the needs will become urgent. We’re ready to respond — but we need the community alongside us.”
Last year, the Food for HOPE pantry provided over 80,000 pounds of food to nearly 2,000 New Jersey families. This year, the organization expects to distribute more than 100,000 pounds to feed approximately 2,500 families.
The growing need comes amid national warnings of a “tsunami” of food insecurity. According to the Associated Press, the suspension of SNAP benefits could affect around 40 million Americans, or one in eight, who rely on the program for groceries. Charitable food organizations currently supply only about one meal for every nine provided by SNAP.
With SNAP benefits expected to pause beginning Nov. 1, the CARE Center anticipates increased demand at its pantry as families lose or see reductions in their federal food assistance. Officials say that without added community support, food inventory and supplies could run low sooner than expected.
The CARE Center is calling on the public to help through:
- Donations of nonperishable food, fresh produce, or funds;
- Businesses and faith groups hosting food drives, offering matching gifts, or becoming corporate sponsors; and
- Volunteers assisting with weekly or Thanksgiving food distributions.
Those wishing to contribute can visit www.CARECenterOfNJ.org to donate, volunteer, or learn more about partnership opportunities.
