Based on the growing socioeconomic trends that are impacting our community, especially during the summer months, food insecurity has been a rising issue that directly affects the well-being of many different families. However, there are numerous and diverse resources available to those who are in need of nutrition services and education. The following programs and services can help fight against food insecurity, while also contributing to long-term health and well-being.

Available Resources:

NJ SNAP:

Board of Social Services Home | Ocean County Government (Income Assistance Programs)

New Jersey’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides food assistance to families with generally low incomes to help them buy groceries. This is done through a benefits card that is accepted in most food retail stores and specific farmer’s markets. There are many different factors that may affect eligibility such as income and resources, but qualifying individuals receiving SNAP benefits allow your family to expand its food funds to have nutritious food  aiding your family’s overall well-being.

WIC:

WIC Clinics: Women, Infants and Children – Ocean County Health Department

The New Jersey Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) is an ongoing successful public health nutrition program that provides wholesome food, nutrition education, and community support to income eligible participants. Participants receive a benefits card that is accepted in most food retail stores. Food benefits are tailored to encourage healthy options to improve nutrition status and prevent malnutrition. WIC is known to improve health outcomes for nutritionally at-risk women, infants and children up to five years old.

Local Food Pantries:

A food pantry is a distribution center where families receive an opportunity to obtain the food they require no matter the circumstances they face. The food pantry collects food from a wide variety of food banks, which enables a pantry to feed hundreds of individuals and families.

Listed below are three local food pantries:

Click the link below to locate a Pantry or Soup Kitchen in Monmouth and Ocean County:

https://fulfillnj.org/get-help/locate-a-pantry-or-soup-kitchen/

Additional Programs:

Ocean County YMCA:

Ocean County YMCA Resumes FREE Summer Meals Program | Ocean County YMCA

The YMCA is taking action in providing lunches and snacks for children Monday through Friday 11am-12pm up until August 26, 2022.

NSLP:

https://www.fns.usda.gov/nslp

The National School Lunch Program (NSLP) is a federally assisted meal program operating in public and nonprofit private schools as well as residential childcare institutions. It provides nutritionally balanced, low-cost or free lunches to children each school day to prevent hunger and support a healthy lifestyle. To find specific contact information based on your state, please visit:  Contact Map | Food and Nutrition Service

State of New Jersey Parent Link:

https://www.nj.gov/njparentlink/ (Health & Wellness – Family Health & Nutrition)