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New Jersey accelerates $42.5m food grants to food banks amid federal shutdown

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  Published in Food and Wine on Thursday, October 30th 2025 at 17:05 GMT by WFMZ-TV
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New Jersey Accelerates $42.5 Million in Food Grants Amid Federal Shutdown

Amid the lingering federal shutdown that has slowed down the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) usual grant‑disbursing operations, New Jersey is stepping in to keep food banks stocked and hungry residents fed. The state’s Department of Agriculture announced that it will accelerate the delivery of a $42.5 million allotment of federal food‑bank grants—previously earmarked for a slow rollout—to the 30 community‑based food banks that serve the state’s 8.9 million residents.

The Funding Source and Purpose

The money comes from the USDA’s Food Distribution Program on Farm (FDPF), a flagship grant initiative that channels surplus agricultural produce and processed foods directly into food banks and community pantries. Under normal circumstances, FDPF funds are disbursed on a phased basis over several months. However, the current shutdown has stalled the USDA’s ability to release the payments in a timely fashion, prompting the New Jersey government to intervene.

According to the New Jersey Department of Agriculture website, the state will distribute the funds in 12 monthly installments over the next year, ensuring a steady flow of fresh and preserved food items to local recipients. The grants are earmarked for staple foods—rice, beans, canned vegetables, and shelf‑stable proteins—alongside perishable produce that local food banks will donate to the hungry. In total, the program is projected to reach over 4 million residents across the state, including children, seniors, and families living in food‑insecure households.

County‑by‑County Rollout

The state’s strategy is to allocate the funds to food banks on a county‑by‑county basis, matching each grant to the local demand. Key recipients include:

• Bergen County Food Bank – The largest in the state, serving more than 400,000 residents. The food bank plans to use the grant to expand its “Fresh Harvest” program, which distributes free produce to low‑income families.
• Hudson County Food Bank – A 24‑hour emergency food pantry in Jersey City that plans to add a weekly “Meal Kit” distribution.
• Middlesex County Food Bank – Will use the funds to bolster its “Nutrition Education” outreach, teaching families how to prepare healthy meals on a budget.
• Monmouth County Food Bank – Will expand its “School Breakfast” program, feeding children in over 30 elementary schools.
• Essex County Food Bank – Will increase its supply of shelf‑stable foods to better serve its 12,000 monthly clients.

The New Jersey Food Bank Network has issued a statement confirming that the additional funding will be used to maintain and expand distribution points, particularly in underserved zip codes that have struggled to receive adequate food supply during the past winter.

Impact of the Federal Shutdown

The federal shutdown, which began on October 1 following a stalemate over the federal budget, has put a brake on the USDA’s cash‑flow mechanisms. The USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) announced that grant disbursements would be delayed until the budgetary impasse is resolved. This has left many food banks scrambling to cover operational costs and replenish inventory.

In response, Governor Phil Murphy issued a statement emphasizing the state’s commitment to public welfare. “We will not let a federal budget crisis leave families in New Jersey hungry. By accelerating these grants, we ensure that our communities continue to have access to nutritious food,” he said.

The USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service website notes that the FDPF has historically been one of the most reliable sources of nutrition assistance in the country, with more than 4,400 food banks and community‑based organizations nationwide benefiting from the program. The New Jersey emergency action effectively mirrors the federal program’s goals, guaranteeing that the state’s most vulnerable populations remain fed.

Community Partnerships and Sustainability

The state’s decision also reflects broader efforts to foster public‑private partnerships that can bridge gaps in public services. The Salvation Army of New Jersey and Meals on Wheels have both pledged to help coordinate distribution networks and share logistics expertise. The USDA’s own website outlines that the FDPF encourages “community collaboration” to enhance the reach of donated goods.

According to the Bergen County Food Bank’s annual report, the grant will allow the organization to invest in a new cold‑storage facility that will reduce spoilage and extend the shelf life of perishable items. The county’s food bank executive director, Sarah Thompson, remarked, “With this accelerated funding, we can keep more fresh produce on our shelves, directly benefiting families who rely on our pantry for healthy meals.”

Looking Forward

While the federal shutdown remains a looming uncertainty, the New Jersey Department of Agriculture’s proactive approach is already yielding tangible results. Food banks report increased inventory levels and a higher capacity to meet emergency needs. The state’s expedited grant rollout has also provided a template for other states grappling with similar federal funding delays.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Service continues to monitor the situation and encourages state governments to collaborate on ensuring that food security does not falter during budgetary disruptions. For residents seeking assistance, local food banks are open for donations and distributions, operating under the expanded financial cushion provided by the state’s accelerated grants.

With these measures in place, New Jersey demonstrates that local governments can act decisively to protect the health and wellbeing of their communities—even when federal systems are stalled. The $42.5 million grant infusion is not just a financial lifeline; it’s a statement of resilience, partnership, and unwavering commitment to feeding every New Jersey resident.