Statement from Elizabeth McCarthy, President & CEO, Community FoodBank of New Jersey; Fred Wasiak, President & CEO, Food Bank of South Jersey; Triada Stampas, President & CEO, Fulfill; Bernie Flynn, CEO, Mercer Street Friends; and Mark Valli, CEO, Norwescap
At a time when so many of our neighbors are already struggling to afford their basic needs, Congress has passed into law a budget reconciliation bill that includes historic disinvestment in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps, our nation’s frontline defense against food insecurity. This damaging legislation imposes new and burdensome barriers to accessing food assistance, while making cuts to Medicaid and other benefits that will force our neighbors facing hunger to make impossible choices.
Together, our food banks serve all 21 counties in New Jersey. We stand united in our unwavering resolve that no one should go hungry in the Garden State, and committed to focusing on solutions that bring dignity, equity, health, and meaningful support to those who need it most.
The challenges ahead of us are daunting. At this moment, unprecedented numbers of our New Jersey neighbors are relying on us for the food they need – more than twice as many as before the pandemic. Our nearly 1,000 partner agencies – food pantries, community kitchens, shelters, and other distribution sites – will see their lines lengthen as federal support is reduced or revoked completely from vulnerable veterans, children, seniors, people with disabilities, and more.
Ensuring that none of our neighbors suffer hungry nights or empty refrigerators will take all of us. We remain dedicated to working alongside lawmakers, community leaders, and local food assistance organizations to fight for the resources our neighbors need to thrive, including federal nutrition programs like SNAP.
Together, we will continue to forge a path towards a hunger-free future by building up long-term solutions to food insecurity and raising our voices to demand policies rooted in compassion and common sense. We invite all who believe in a brighter tomorrow for everyone to join us in this work.