Thanksgiving Food Drives Come Through for South Brunswick Food Pantry

The South Brunswick Food Pantry , but thanks to the efforts of numerous groups and individuals throughout the township, Social Services was able to answer the call for the less fortunate.

"Last week we had a big push for food and we are now doing well and ending the Thanksgiving food drive on a positive note," said Social Services Director LouAnne Wolf. "We're able to start our Christmas drive off well, being able to fill boxes, but we will still need more food."

, as the less fortunate are still plagued by difficulties finding employment and the end of unemployment benefits. About 180 families are signed up to receive aid during the holiday season.

Wolf praised everyone who donated to the pantry during the Thanksgiving drive. She thanked the efforts of township schools, and especially Crossroads South Middle School, who had the largest food collection of the season thus far.

She thanked everyone who donated at the South Brunswick High School football game this past Friday and at the Powder Puff game on Saturday. St. Cecilia’s Church also gave a large donation, as did American Legion Post 401, who donated an entire truckload full of food. 

Post 401's annual food drive in support of the pantry began on Nov. 1, and continues through the month of December. 

“So far people have been very generous,” said Gary Cooper, Post 401 commander. “(Monday) we dropped off over $400 in staples that will help the food bank provide for about 200 families in South Brunswick who can use the help this holiday season. But much more is needed, we hope our community will continue its generosity.”

Social Services now continues its efforts for the holiday season, as volunteers are needed to participate in the Adopt-a-Family program. The program involves members of the community taking a wish list from a family and providing some of the items on the list. Drop off dates run through Dec. 20.

"Some of these children might not get anything else for the holidays beyond what we're able to do for them," Wolf said. "It's difficult times for everyone. If anyone can dig a little deeper to help it makes a huge difference. It gives those who donate a wonderful feeling to know they made a difference in somebody's life."

Residents can continue to donate food to the pantry at the office of at 540 Ridge Road in Monmouth Junction. Residents may also drop off their non-perishable food donations at the American Legion Post 401 at 148 Major Road in Monmouth Junction, anytime after 1 p.m., seven days a week.

“We ask that everyone attending our karaoke dance on Dec. 2, our Christmas Party on Dec. 10, or at the post for any reason this holiday season bring a donation with them,” Cooper said.

For more information or directions call 732-329-9861.

The pantry is still in need of the following items:

• turkeys and hams
• cereal
• oatmeal
• juice boxes
• Parmalot
• jelly
• pancake mix and syrup

To participate in the Adopt-a-Family program, or to donate food or money to the South Brunswick Food Pantry call 732-329-4000 Ext. 7674.