Because of the federal government shutdown, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits have been suspended. Without the SNAP benefits, it’s difficult or impossible for many to obtain the necessary nutritional assistance they need. As a result, they may go hungry and experience adverse health outcomes. Now more than ever, it’s important to donate to your local food bank.
In New Jersey, more than 800,000 people rely on SNAP for their basic nutritional needs. Of those people, nearly half are children, one in three are individuals with a disability, and one in five are over the age of 60. As for Hudson County, one in seven residents, or almost 100,000 people, receive SNAP benefits, including 40,000 children.
By donating to food banks, you support individuals and families who are struggling to make ends meet. It helps to reduce hunger and poverty within your local community and makes sure that everyone has access to basic necessities for a healthy life.
There are numerous places in Hoboken where you can donate. For example, you could donate to the Hoboken Community Center (HCC), as they have over 3,000 clients, during their donation hours every Thursday from 9 to 11 a.m. at 1301 Washington St. You could provide a monetary donation, partner with a hygiene or food drive, purchase items from their Amazon Wish List, or sponsor a monthly meal. Recently, they have also hosted their first November food sistribution to prepare for an increase in demand.
Another location to donate to is the Hoboken Shelter. Last year, they provided 176,609 meals (a 9,060 increase from 2023) and had over 1,900 unique volunteers supporting them. If you donate $2, you can feed a guest a healthy and nutritious meal. Furthermore, they are always in need of goods, whether it be food, clothing, or hygienic items. Some of their top food needs include instant potatoes, cereal, milk, frozen meat (especially turkey, ham, and meatballs), juice, marinara sauce, and soft fruits (especially bananas and oranges). Deliveries and drop-offs can be made daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. at 300 Bloomfield St.
Finally, St. Matthew Trinity Lutheran Church has their Lunchtime Ministry (LTM), where they give 80 to 100 people a warm meal, hospitality, and community. They accept donations from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Mondays to Thursdays at the Parish Hall. All year long, they need milk, fresh fruits and vegetables, coffee, and sugar. You could also directly write them a check or look at their Amazon wishlist to donate specific items.
To find more local food banks, use the Community FoodBank of New Jersey (CFBNJ)’s website to discover the nearest pantries and meal programs to donate to. You can also donate directly to CFBNJ, as they will double your donation for a monthly pledge until December 31, 2025. There are plenty of ways to donate and help out your local community. So go out there, explore the potential ways to help, and aim to make a difference!
