Burlington County Families Get 2K Free Lunches In Food Truck Tour

State Sen. Troy Singleton (D-7) spearheaded an effort in which residents in 16 towns received a total of 2,000 meals this summer, the senator announced on Friday.

Singleton partnered with the "Wanna Pizza This?" food truck, a local Burlington County based small business, to provide lunches to thousands of residents in the state’s Seventh Legislative District.

Beginning in July, the truck distributed meals that consisted of a hoagie, fruit, cookie, and a beverage. He also partnered with local school districts, so they could invite families that receive free/reduced lunch to the events.

"Food insecurity has been, and will continue to be, an issue I am very concerned about," Singleton said. "However, it is even more of a priority in the summer months, when many children do not have access to their school lunch programs. That is why we partnered with our local school districts to make sure these meals got to those families who need them the most."

Burlington County Deputy Commissioner Dan O’Connell and representatives from the Burlington County Human Services Office attended the events to inform families about social service programs offered.

South Jersey Boys Read distributed bags of age-appropriate books to children at the events. The Center for Family Services was also on hand to share information about their Navigator Exchange Program.

“No child or family should ever have to go hungry or choose between having adequate food and other basic necessities like rent, mortgage or health care,” Burlington County Deputy Commissioner Dan O’Connell said. “Attending these Friday events, I saw firsthand how even one free lunch can make a world of difference for families are that still struggling. On behalf of our entire Board of County Commissioners, I want to thank Senator Singleton and his office for taking on this incredible initiative, and we vow to continue working with him to bring an end to food insecurity in our county.”

It was all part of Singleton’s second “Food Truck Friday” tour, in which Mama’s Homemade Cookies also participated.

Singleton also hosts monthly “Serve with Senator Singleton” community service projects, and hosts a number of donation drives throughout the year, most recently being a school supply drive.