Week 42: Food Distribution In Toms River, South Toms River

TOMS RIVER, NJ — The holidays are over, but food insecurity remains a pressing issue for families throughout Ocean County.

In Toms River, the efforts to combat the problem by providing food to those in need are marking their 42nd week, with distributions set for Friday in Toms River and South Toms River.

Crisis food kits provided by Fulfill, the FoodBank of Monmouth and Ocean counties, along with additional items provided by various donors, will be available at two sites that have been operating since last March:

South Toms River Elementary School on Dover Road, South Toms River, and the Presbyterian Church of Toms River, 1070 Hooper Ave., Toms River.

Both distributions begin at 9 a.m. and continue until the food runs out, or noon in South Toms River, 1 p.m. in Toms River.

"If you or a loved one are in need or suffering from food insecurity, please come by and see us for some fresh produce and food," Toms River Councilman Terrance Turnbach, one of the organizers, said.

No identification or registration is required, no questions asked beyond how many people are in your family needing food.

If you are not able to get to either of these distributions, here is a list of food pantries in Ocean County where you can get help: Coronavirus Increases Hunger: Find A Food Bank In Ocean County

Patch has partnered with Feeding America to help raise awareness on behalf of the millions of Americans facing hunger. Feeding America, which supports 200 food banks across the country, estimates that in 2020, more than 54 million Americans will not have enough nutritious food to eat due to the effects of the coronavirus pandemic. This is a Patch social good project; Feeding America receives 100 percent of donations. Find out how you can donate in your community or find a food pantry near you.