Food Support and Assistance for Local Families
![Local Food Assistance Post]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1762375627/jefftwporg/mqzompfgodlxjstktyku/FoodAssistance.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1762375627/jefftwporg/mqzompfgodlxjstktyku/FoodAssistance.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1762375627/jefftwporg/mqzompfgodlxjstktyku/FoodAssistance.png","width":800}])
Are you or someone you know experiencing food insecurity? Food insecurity means not having reliable access to enough affordable, nutritious food for everyone in your household.
If you or someone you know is struggling to afford groceries or regular meals, there are many local and state-wide programs that can help right now — most offering fresh produce, pantry staples, and prepared meals at no cost.
School Meal Benefits
Free and Reduced-Price Meals: Once your child is approved for free or reduced-price meals, that status remains in place for the entire school year, even if your household’s income or circumstances change.
Automatic Free Meals for SNAP Families: If your household participates in SNAP, your child is automatically eligible for free school meals — no additional application is required.
You Can Apply Anytime: Families can apply or reapply for free or reduced-price meals at any point during the school year. If your household income or size changes (or you experience a new hardship), please submit an updated application.
- Free & Reduced Meal Application – English
- Solicitud de comidas gratis o a precio reducido – Español
State-Wide Resources:
- NJ 211 Helpline: Dial 2-1-1 or visit NJ211.org for a state-wide directory of food pantries, community kitchens, and other basic needs.
- NJ SNAP Information: njsnap.gov – check your SNAP balance and program updates.
- Office of the Food Security Advocate: nj.gov/foodsecurity – state updates and guidance on food programs.
- Find Help Portal: erescspecialprograms.findhelp.
com – enter a ZIP code to locate food banks, housing assistance, and other supports anywhere in the state or country. The site offers translation into multiple languages.
Morris and Sussex County Resources:
- Family Promise of Morris & Sussex Counties: (973) 579-1180 | 19 Church St., Newton NJ 07860 – housing, utilities, mental-health and food support
- Interfaith Food Pantry Network: (973) 538-8049 | mcifp.org
- New Hope Food Pantry: (973) 809-4355 (please ask for Jim)
- Norwescap: (908) 454-7000 | norwescap.org
- Nourish NJ: (973) 267-0709 | nourishnj.org
- Star of the Sea: (973) 663-0211
Additional Food Pantries in Morris & Sussex Counties
Many pantries offer fresh produce, non-perishable foods, shopping appointments, and referrals to other services.