Flemington Area Food Pantry calls for community support amid SNAP benefit suspension
RARITAN TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Hunterdon County) — As the federal government shutdown halts funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the Flemington Area Food Pantry (FAFP) is urging the community to help support local families facing food insecurity.
“When benefits are delayed, [we] can help anyone in need,” said FAFP Executive Director Jeannine Gorman. “We understand this will create financial struggles for many families in our community [but] your neighbors at the Flemington Area Food Pantry are ready to support you.”
The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced that SNAP benefits would not be distributed beginning Nov. 1 due to the lapse in federal funding that began Oct. 1. The federal program provides monthly food assistance to more than 42 million low-income Americans, including over 800,000 in New Jersey.
“Over 2,000 Hunterdon County households rely on SNAP benefits to help feed their families,” Gorman said. “With the increase in demand, your support makes a real difference. We provide meats, proteins, fruits & vegetables, and a welcoming community – no appointment needed.”
The pantry is encouraging residents to help their neighbors by donating online, organizing food drives, or contributing grocery items from the pantry’s suggested donation list. Shoppers can also donate their free Thanksgiving turkey at ShopRite of Flemington by informing an associate they wish to contribute it to the Food Pantry.
“Together, we can make sure no one goes hungry this season,” Gorman added.
Located at 154 U.S. Route 31 North in Flemington, across from the front of Walmart, the pantry accepts donations Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Distribution hours are Monday through Thursday from 9 to 11:30 a.m., every other Wednesday evening from 4 to 8 p.m., and every other Saturday from 9 to 11:30 a.m. Seniors aged 60 and older can visit on the third Tuesday of each month from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m.
For more information or to coordinate donations, visit flemingtonfoodpantry.org, email info@flemingtonfoodpantry.org, or call (908) 788-5568.
