During the novel coronavirus pandemic, the need for assistance in Middlesex County has grown significantly.
MCFOODS (Middlesex County Food Organization and Outreach Distribution Services) distributed 4,378,792 pounds of food in 2020 versus 2,273,174 pounds in 2019; this is a 93% increase, according to information provided after the Stuff the Truck food donation event, held by East Brunswick Stop & Shop, in partnership with Feeding Middlesex County and MCFOODS on Feb. 20.
Additionally, more than 12% of Middlesex County residents were projected to be food insecure by the end of 2020, up from 7.3% pre-COVID, according to the statement.
Area residents donated canned chicken, cereal, macaroni and cheese, canned meats and pasta, low sodium vegetables, low sugar fruits, low sodium stew, rice, pasta, red black and pinto dry beans, granola bars, diapers, soap, shampoo and toothpaste throughout the day on Feb. 20 at the Stop & Shop location at 647 Route 18, according to the statement.
MCFOODS helps feed children, seniors, veterans, the disabled and working families struggling to make ends meet through a network of more than 140 partner organizations, including food pantries, soup kitchens and social service organizations throughout the 25 towns in Middlesex County to ensure that all residents always have access to nutritionally adequate food and necessities, according to the statement.