Middlesex County food bank joins Hunger Action Month in September with these events

Cheryl Makin, MyCentralJersey.com

In the fight against food insecurity, Hunger Action Month is being observed with a lineup of events spearheaded by Middlesex County’s REPLENISH program.

Hunger Action Month is dedicated to raising awareness and mobilizing resources to support those in need and serves as a reminder of many residents' ongoing challenges in securing adequate nutrition.

"Hunger Action Month is an opportunity to rally our community around a cause that touches many of our neighbors," Middlesex County Commissioner Director Ronald G. Rios said in a statement. "These events are about more than awareness − they’re about taking real steps to ensure that no one in Middlesex County goes hungry. Our community’s collective efforts make a tangible difference, putting food on the tables of those who need it most."

This year’s observance carries special significance as REPLENISH marks its 30th anniversary. Since its inception, REPLENISH has been a cornerstone in the battle against hunger, offering essential resources to countless families. To honor the milestone, REPLENISH has launched its 30 for 30 Challenge, a quarterly initiative that continues through October.

Volunteers help the REPLENISH team load food into vehicles.
Volunteers help the REPLENISH team load food into vehicles.

The 30 for 30 Challenge invites groups to donate at least 30 items from REPLENISH’s list of high-demand foods and necessities throughout the year. As the final quarter of the challenge approaches in October, residents and businesses are encouraged to participate and contribute to the fight against food insecurity.

More: TikTok sensation Tariq the Corn Kid helps food bank mark 30th anniversary

"In a community as diverse and vibrant as ours, addressing food insecurity is not just a responsibility, but a shared commitment," County Commissioner Claribel A. Azcona-Barber added. "Hunger Action Month reminds us that through collective action and sustained effort, we can ensure no one in Middlesex County goes hungry. Together, we can turn compassion into impact and make our community stronger, healthier, and more resilient."

Hunger Action Month events in September

  • Sept. 15: From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., REPLENISH is hosting its "Donate While You Shop Food Drive" to increase food donations from the community. Join REPLENISH at the ShopRite at 600 Schulmeister Road, Old Bridge, and the Stop & Shop at 1600 Perrineville Road, Monroe, to donate high-need items. Free and open to the public. Volunteers are wanted. To register to volunteer, click here.

  • Sept. 23: At 10 a.m., REPLENISH teams up with "Share Your Foodways" for a live cooking demonstration at REPLENISH, 28 Kennedy Boulevard, Suite 850, East Brunswick. Free and open to the public. Registration is required.Click here to register.

  • Sept. 25: From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., the The Senior Health and Fitness Walk is promoting health and wellness to County residents with REPLENISH hosting a food drive at the event at Roosevelt Park, 1 Pine Drive, Edison. Registration is required. Click here for more information, and to register.

  • Sept. 26: At 6 p.m., Feeding Middlesex County, in partnership with REPLENISH, is hosting the Hunger Heroes Cocktail Reception at the Pines Manor, honoring this year’s distinguished Hunger Heroes in Middlesex County. Click here for more information about the event.

Helping beyond Hunger Action Month

Through partnerships, donations, and active community involvement, REPLENISH aims to ensure that no one in Middlesex County goes hungry. Past partnerships with the New York Giants, TopGolf, and Rutgers Men’s Golf, and this year’s collaboration with the U.S. Navy, highlight the vital role community allies play in supporting REPLENISH’s mission.

"We are proud to lead Middlesex County’s efforts during Hunger Action Month," REPLENISH Directors Jennifer Apostol said in a statement. "Our Hunger Action Month events are more than just a call to donate; they are a lifeline for many in our community who struggle with food insecurity. This month is a reminder of the power of community and the impact we can make when we come together to support our neighbors."

For those unable to attend a food collection event, donations of food and basic supplies can be dropped off at the REPLENISH facility in East Brunswick during operating hours. Perishable items like meat, dairy, or fresh produce are welcome. Call 732-729-0880 for more details.

Monetary donations are also accepted, with checks payable to Feeding Middlesex County, mailed to PO Box 781, Edison, N.J., 08818, or via its website feedingmiddlesexcounty.org.

For those in need of food assistance, REPLENISH’s Healthy Food Map is available at middlesexcountynj.gov/healthyfoodsmap, providing a comprehensive list of food pantries, farmers markets, and transportation routes.

email: cmakin@gannettnj.com

Cheryl Makin is an award-winning features and education reporter for MyCentralJersey.com, part of the USA Today Network. Contact: Cmakin@gannettnj.com or @CherylMakin. To get unlimited access, please subscribe or activate your digital account today.

This article originally appeared on MyCentralJersey.com: Middlesex County food bank joins Hunger Action Month with these events

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