County assisting SNAP beneficiaries amid shutdown

As Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits are being affected by the federal government shutdown, Sussex County is taking steps to assist the 4,000 or so county residents who receive assistance through the federal program.

“The county began preparing for this two weeks ago,” Sussex County Interim Administrator Christina Marks said Monday afternoon. “We have collected food and have the ability to distribute to those in need. For example, with all the days off this month, we have been working with schools to ensure that kids who’d normally get free or reduced breakfast or lunch still get assistance at local food pantries on those days off. As well, the county has begun distributing gift cards to seniors who receive assistance through the program.”

With Gov. Phil Murphy’s emergency declaration allotting resources to a handful of larger food pantries in other parts of the state, Sussex County’s efforts are focused on food distribution. The county is coordinating with nonprofit organizations, faith-based partners, municipal leaders, and local food banks to assess inventory, identify high-need areas, and coordinate emergency distribution plans.

Residents are encouraged to donate canned goods, boxed meals and household staples to the Stuff the Bus Food Drive from Nov. 21 through Nov. 23 at various ShopRite locations throughout the county. Local coordinators will be on site to provide any additional assistance to those in need and additional food drives and community collections are being planned, with details to be announced in the coming days.

For updates on Stuff the Bus, visit Sussex.nj.us, the county’s social media pages and 103.7 WNNJ and 102.3 WSUS.

Marks said that, if needed, the county could use Operation of Emergency Management centers as food storage or distribution centers and members of the Medical Reserve Corps. could be activated.

“We’re asking residents to be a little extra generous this season, whether that means buying a few additional non-perishable items on your next grocery trip or donating a $10 gift card to a local grocery store,” Board of County Commissioners Deputy Director Jill Space said. “Every contribution helps make sure that no family goes without a meal in Sussex County.”

State officials recommend SNAP recipients monitor their accounts at NJFamiliesFirst.com or call 800-997-3333 for updates. Any funds currently available on Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards will remain accessible even with federal funding temporarily interrupted. Residents in need of food assistance can locate local food pantries and community kitchens by visiting nj211.org/njsnap.