JACKSON, NJ – Mayor Jennifer L. Kuhn praised the nonprofit Fulfill and the Jackson Food Pantry this week for providing meals to local families after federal SNAP benefit payments were temporarily halted during the ongoing government shutdown.
More than 50 Jackson families received food assistance through coordinated efforts between Fulfill, the Township of Jackson, the Jackson School District, and community volunteers.
A federal judge has since ordered the release of SNAP funds, but local leaders said the emergency food distributions helped families when they needed it most.
Mayor Kuhn had spoken to New Jersey State Senator Owen Henry who connected her with Fill on November 2nd. She then contacted Jackson School District Superintendent Nicole Pormilli and the district coordinated the pop-up, despite schools being closed for the NJEA convenction this week.
Key Points
- Fulfill and the Jackson Food Pantry provided food to more than 50 families in Jackson.
- The aid came as SNAP benefit payments were delayed by the federal shutdown.
- Mayor Kuhn thanked volunteers and organizations for their swift community response.
Community response fills the gap
“Fulfill is an amazing organization and with our local Jackson Food Pantry, they came through when our residents who are most in need, needed them most,” Mayor Kuhn said. “I want to thank them for the great work they do, 365 days a year, but especially for helping our residents during this critical time.”
Volunteers from across the township joined the effort, distributing groceries and meals to families struggling with the sudden loss of food assistance. Kuhn said the turnout reflected the strength and compassion of the Jackson community.
Fulfill expands food access across the region
In a statement, Fulfill said the organization mobilized emergency food distributions at schools across Monmouth and Ocean Counties after the delay in SNAP funding left many children without regular meals. “We stepped in to help fill the gap,” the organization said.
Fulfill plans to continue operating pop-up food events across the region to ensure families have access to nutritious meals as the shutdown’s effects continue. Residents can follow Fulfill on Facebook for information on upcoming distribution sites and schedules.