The Camden County Board of Commissioners has announced an emergency food distribution event at Camden County College’s Blackwood Campus on November 12. The event is intended to support local families affected by the ongoing government shutdown and delays in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.
The shutdown, now in its second month, has left federal employees without paychecks and delayed SNAP benefits for more than 75,000 residents in Camden County. The Board of Commissioners is working with the Food Bank of South Jersey and Farmers Against Hunger to provide immediate assistance.
“We are in the midst of the longest government shutdown in history, and too many of our hardworking residents are being caught in the middle of an appalling political ploy by the Trump administration,” said Commissioner Director Louis Cappelli Jr. “The Board of Commissioners is dedicated to making sure no family in Camden County goes without food or basic necessities during this unprecedented time.”
Commissioner Virginia Betteridge, liaison to the Camden County Department of Health and Human Services, emphasized community support: “At times like this, it is more important than ever to come together as a community. If you are in a position to help, the Food Bank of South Jersey welcomes monetary donations. Every contribution makes a difference for our neighbors in need.”
To receive food assistance at the event, participants must present proof of Camden County residency along with a SNAP Benefits Card or Federal Employee ID. Supplies are limited and will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis through a drive-thru format from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Lot 6, 200 College Drive, Gloucester Township.
Those arriving after supplies run out will receive information about additional food assistance resources from the Camden County Board of Social Services.
Statewide, SNAP supports over 800,000 New Jersey residents across approximately 400,000 households. In Camden County alone, about 75,000 people rely on these benefits.
Residents seeking more information on food assistance can visit www.camdencounty.com/service/community-development/food-insecurity/. Those interested in donating to help bridge gaps caused by SNAP delays can go to www.camdencounty.com/help-bridge-the-snap-gap/.
