More New Jersey families are facing growing uncertainty. Deep cuts to federal food programs and the ongoing government shutdown mean even more of our neighbors will struggle to put food on the table.
The Community FoodBank of New Jersey remains committed to nourishing communities, advocating for solutions, and empowering families — but the need is greater than ever. Feeding America estimates that recent changes to federal nutrition programs could reduce access to food by six billion meals nationwide each year. For CFBNJ, that would mean doubling our distribution from 90 million to 180 million meals — an impossible gap to fill without urgent action.
The shutdown has also reduced and delayed the distribution of SNAP benefits, leaving many vulnerable households without essential food assistance. Still, we refuse to back down. CFBNJ will continue doing everything we can to support our neighbors — children, families, and seniors alike. For the 1.1 million New Jerseyans who are food insecure, we remain a steadfast lifeline. Now is the time to unite to end hunger. Together, we can protect access to nutritious food and build a stronger, hunger-free New Jersey.
The Strength of SNAP
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is the nation’s first line of defense against hunger, providing households with low incomes much-needed assistance to purchase nutritious food. Without SNAP, hunger in this country would be far worse. In New Jersey, SNAP helps almost 850,000 people put food on the table. With high food prices and food insecurity on the rise in New Jersey, protecting and strengthening SNAP is more important than ever.
of NJ SNAP households have older adults
of NJ SNAP households have children
of NJ SNAP households have a person with a disability
NJ veterans participate in SNAP
Fewer Benefits, More Barriers: Understanding Changes to SNAP
To get SNAP, people must go through an application process that checks their income and requires U.S. citizenship or legal residency. SNAP benefits are given on a debit card that can only be used to buy food. Here are some of the changes in the new law that make it harder for many New Jerseyans who rely on SNAP to access nutritious food:
Work Requirements Expand
Adults 54–64, caregivers of children over 13, and many vulnerable groups — including veterans, former foster youth, and people experiencing homelessness — must meet 20-hour-per-week requirements or lose their benefits for three years.
Some Deductions are Eliminated
The law removes certain deductions, including internet expenses, from SNAP calculations, lowering benefits for around 65% of households, even as staying connected remains essential.
Costs are Passed on to States
By transferring some SNAP costs from the federal government to states, the law could force cuts to essential services or tax hikes.
Community Resources will be Overburdened
When SNAP changes drive more people to food pantries, local food assistance organizations face surge capacity they cannot meet.
SNAP is a Lifesaver for Laurie
Laurie has spent her life in the food industry, starting as a dishwasher at 12 and working as a host, waitress, cook, bartender, and even wedding caterer. After decades on her feet, she retired and lives with roommates.
Despite a career built on feeding others, Laurie struggles to put food on her own table in retirement. Rising costs stretch her limited Social Security and about $200 per month in SNAP benefits. “The FoodBank has been a godsend,” she said.
At CFBNJ’s monthly mobile pantry in Ventnor City, Laurie receives fresh, healthy food, including meat and vegetable boxes from local farmers. But now in her early 60s, she worries about losing SNAP benefits under the new work requirements. “SNAP has been a lifesaver,” she said. “If I didn’t have it, it would be tough.”
SNAP Fast Facts
How You Can Help Today
Donate
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Learn
Work to understand the current landscape of food insecurity and the public programs that address it. Learn more.
Connect with Legislators
It’s critical for representatives to hear from you that Congress should not cut food security programs. Reach out.
Volunteer
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How to Find Food Assistance
If you are affected by cuts to SNAP or the government shutdown, CFBNJ is here to help you get the food you need.
Text 908-224-7776
Text “FindFood” for English or “Comida” for Spanish to 908-224-7776. Enter your zip code to find local pantries in just seconds.
Call CFBNJ’s Food Assistance Line
Call CFBNJ’s Food Assistance Line at 908-838-4832 to reach someone from our multilingual team.
Visit Our Website
Visit cfbnj.org/findfood and enter your zip code to get connected with free food and other services.