Parks & Recreation director outlines food pantry demand, donation drives and volunteer needs

John Groger, Montgomery Township's parks and recreation director, told the Sept. 16 township committee the town's food pantry, based at the Auto Kaufman Community Center, has been operating for more than 20 years and saw increased demand in 2025. "We serve 37 households so far," Groger said in his presentation, adding the pantry recorded about 142 visits from January through the end of August and has given more than $9,000 in ShopRite gift cards to supplement its nonperishable inventory.

Groger explained the pantry stores only nonperishables (no refrigeration) and relies on community donations, partnerships (Elks, PBA, school district) and volunteers. He described targeted drives (trunk-or-treat Oct. 25, Thanksgiving meal drive and December holiday drive), two local drop-off bins and a plan to solicit volunteers via township and parks-and-recreation Facebook pages. When asked about acceptable items and expiration-date guidance, Groger said staff post current needs online and asked donors to be mindful of expiration dates.

The committee thanked Groger for stepping in while the community-resource manager position is vacant and encouraged residents to volunteer and donate. The presentation included a client quote praising volunteers for supplementing gaps where unemployment benefits and food stamps do not cover needs.

Why it matters: The pantry supplements food access for residents who face gaps in federal/state benefits. The committee signaled ongoing support and noted opportunities for town-led donation events to maintain supplies.

Next steps: Staff will continue outreach for volunteers and publish pantry needs on township channels; Groger provided his contact information for donations and volunteer coordination.