SAYREVILLE — Pockets are pinched and budgets are tight during economic recessions, but mouths still need to be fed.
A $14,000 boost in funds to Middlesex County food banks will help in that effort.
The money is the result of the second annual Bowl for Hunger fundraiser hosted by state Assemblyman Craig Coughlin in partnership with the Raritan Bay Medical Center Foundation and Middlesex Water Co. Coughlin said 30 food banks in the state’s 19th Legislative District will receive approximately $470 in additional funds.
Coughlin relayed the news during the Sept. 12 Borough Council meeting, with representatives from Sayreville’s own food banks at his side. Faith Fellowship Ministries, Our Lady of Victories Parish Food Bank and World Outreach Center and the Sayreville Care & Share Food Bank are the borough’s beneficiaries.
In SouthAmboy, First Presbyterian Church of SouthAmboy and St. Mary’s Church Food Pantry will receive the aid.
The Bowl for Hunger event took place at the Woodbridge Bowling Center on July 19. Coughlin said 350 bowlers participated in the four-hour event, and Sayreville contributed the most teams of bowlers. A total of 73 corporate and individual sponsors donated at least the required $100 to the cause.
Coughlin stressed the need for these fundraisers and other types of support for local food banks, because they serve a critical purpose in these tough economic times.
“People who were donors last year are now recipients,” he said. “There were 27 food banks in the 19th District last year. This year, there are 30.”
Last year the event raised $10,000 for those 27 food banks, according to Coughlin.
“Nothing is more essential than feeding people,” he said. “The need is continuing, and it’s growing.”
— Deanna McLafferty