Assemblyman Sponsored Food Drive Brings In Over 1,000 Pounds for FoodBank

Assemblyman Robert Clifton’s Spring “Doubler Days” Food Drive for the FoodBank of Monmouth and Ocean counties brings in over 1000 pounds of food for the a non-profit organization.  

The Food Drive began on March 1 and ran until April 4. During that time, Clifton reached out to recreation departments, churches, senior centers, and community organizations throughout the district to solicit donations for the FoodBank that collects and distributes charitable food to those at risk of hunger throughout New Jersey.

“There is a huge need in our district to feed the hungry,” said Clifton in a news release. “In these tough economic times, more people than ever are reliant on charitable organizations to help get their food.” 

According to Carlos M. Rodriguez, the Executive Director of the Food Bank, “last year we supplied more than 260 food pantries, soup kitchens and shelters with almost 7 millions pounds of food. We have experienced a 71 percent increase in demand for emergency food since the start of the recession. The need is here.”

Continued in a news release, Clifton thanked all of the constituents throughout the district that participated and made the food drive a success. He also wanted to recognize and thank those who volunteered to be collection points during the Food Drive. Food collection points were at the Recreation Department of Millstone Township, the United Presbyterian Church of Millstone, the Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd in Old Bridge, the Western Monmouth County YMCA in Freehold, the Chelsea at Manalapan Senior Living Facility, and the The Orchards at Bartley Assisted Living Facility in Jackson.

“It’s important we make people aware that hunger is a serious issue in our community,” Assemblyman Clifton said. “I hope the Food Drive will encourage people to get involved and lend a hand to their neighbors in need.”

On April 4, Clifton visited the FoodBank with the 1,297 pounds of donated food. Due to the success of his Spring “Doubler Days” Food Drive, Clifton announced he will host another food drive this fall . For more information you can call Assemblyman Clifton’s District Office at (732) 446-3408.