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City reports emergency food drive after 2,788 Hackensack households lost SNAP benefits
Summary
City Manager Mr. Freeman said an emergency food drive launched after 2,788 Hackensack families temporarily lost SNAP benefits; community donations and a private gift enabled more than 1,000 box lunches to be distributed on Nov. 6 while the city continued to accept donations at multiple collection sites.
City Manager Mr. Freeman briefed the council on the city’s emergency response after a temporary interruption in SNAP benefits for local families.
Freeman said 2,788 Hackensack households were affected by the federal interruption and the city, council and nonprofit partners launched an emergency food drive beginning Oct. 30. Community donations, municipal staff coordination and private contributions allowed the city to assemble distribution points and continue collections at local sites. The manager said more than 1,000 box lunches were distributed on Nov. 6 with support from a donation by Lorenzo Food Group.
Freeman asked residents to continue donating to local pantries as benefit restorations nationally remained unsettled and noted the city’s Veterans Day and other holiday events where volunteers and partners have assisted with distributions. Council members and staff encouraged residents to check the city website for donation locations and to contact the city manager’s office with questions.
Why it matters: The interruption to SNAP benefits created an immediate, large local need; the coordinated municipal response and private donations reduced short‑term food insecurity while longer‑term benefit restoration processes continue.
What’s next: The city will maintain collection points and coordinate with the Center for Food Action and other community organizations while monitoring state and federal updates on SNAP restoration.
