Bergen County Distributes Over 90,000 Pounds of Fresh Produce to Support Families Ahead of Thanksgiving
HACKENSACK, N.J. – Last Monday, November 17th, the Bergen County Office of Food Security and the Community FoodBank of New Jersey held a major fresh-produce distribution at Overpeck County Park, supplying more than 90,000 pounds of fruits and vegetables to food pantries across the county just days before Thanksgiving.
More than 4,500 boxes filled with staples such as potatoes, onions, apples, oranges, and cabbage were loaded into vehicles by over 50 volunteers, helping restock over 40 food pantries that continue to see rising demand.
The distribution came just over a week after the temporary suspension of federal SNAP benefits during the government shutdown—an interruption that left thousands of New Jersey families without access to essential monthly aid.
Bergen County Commissioner Tracy Silna Zur, who chairs the County’s Food Security Task Force, emphasized the importance of meeting residents’ basic needs, especially during the holidays.
“Half of the individuals who rely on SNAP are children, and another large portion are seniors and residents with disabilities. These are our neighbors who need us the most,” said Bergen County Commissioner Tracy Silna Zur. “This distribution ensures families have not just a Thanksgiving meal, but the fresh, healthy ingredients that are essential for long-term well-being. We are grateful to all of our partners who help make this possible.”
Bergen County Executive James J. Tedesco III noted that food insecurity affects every corner of the county’s 70 municipalities.
“Every community in Bergen County has residents who are struggling to put food on the table,” said Bergen County Executive James J. Tedesco III. “Our job as county government is to step up, support our food pantries, and make sure help reaches every town. Last week’s distribution is another example of what we can do when government and community partners come together.”
“So many families were impacted when SNAP benefits were delayed, and pantries across the state saw an immediate surge in need,” said Jeannie Fournier, Chief Impact Officer for the Community FoodBank of New Jersey. “You can’t eat retroactively. Families lost days of purchasing power, and events like this help fill the gap with nutritious food at a moment when people are really struggling.”
Food pantry representatives from across the county said the distribution is a crucial boost as they work to keep up with demand. Many reported that lines have grown significantly in recent weeks, with new families turning to pantries for the first time.
The Bergen County Office of Food Security will continue partnering with local organizations and statewide agencies to ensure residents have access to nutritious food year-round.
Photo Caption: A portion of the over 50 volunteers with County Executive Jim Tedesco, Bergen County Commissioners Mary Amoroso, Germaine Ortiz and Tracy Silna Zur and Assemblywoman Shama Haider.