Jackson food pantry seeks support during holidays

JACKSON - With the holiday season almost here, the Jackson Food Pantry operated by the Jackson Women of Today will be accepting donations for the Thanks-giving and December holiday distributions.

"At this time of the year the food supply is very low for the number of families that will be in need in the community," said pantry director Vicky Vitale.

Donations of turkeys, hams and other holiday food items may be made at the food pantry, 62 Don Connor Boulevard, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Nov. 14. At that time volunteers will be stocking the shelves with the donated items.

On Nov. 16 from 3-7:30 p.m., clients of the food pantry may pick up food. Proper identification is needed at that time.

Nov. 18 will be Scouting for Food Day. Collected food items may be dropped off at the pantry between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.

Vitale said people may call (732) 833-6800 to make arrangements to donate food if any of those times are not convenient.

The following items are needed: turkeys, canned ham, chickens, canned yams, potatoes, stuffing, gravy, canned vegetables.

Items needed on a regular basis include soap, shampoo, toothpaste, paper products (no plates or cups), baby formula, 2T to 6T diapers, stages food, baby wipes, canned vegetables, tuna, peanut butter, jelly, macaroni and cheese, all kinds of cereals, red sauce in cans or jars, dry pasta, canned soups, and rice and pasta mixes.

"A very special thank you goes to all of the community groups, schools, churches, businesses and individuals that have made donations and have run food drives and collections to support the Jackson Food Pantry throughout the year," Vitale said. "Their continued support is what keeps the pantry operating."

Any community service or civic group interested in running a food drive or making a donation may call (732) 833-6800 or (732) 252-6862.

Former mayor Mike Kafton has announced that he is collecting donations of food on behalf of the food pantry.

"I am reaching out to all of our residents and asking for their help in collecting food and other supplies so we can fill up the shelves of the Jackson pantry and then everyone can enjoy a bountiful and joyous holiday," Kafton said.

"We are asking the nonprofits and sports organizations to join us in this townwide food drive as well as the senior communities and anyone else in town so we can make a difference in the lives of those who are less fortunate," he said. "People can donate food at my office, George Realty, 2200 W. County Line Road, or at the White Butterfly, 200 N. County Line Road."

Food donations may also be dropped off at the food pantry on Dec. 1 between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. and Dec. 12 between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

For more information Kafton's office may be reached at (732) 905-7898. Kafton said the food drive will continue through the Christmas holiday.

Financial donations may be sent to the Jackson Women of Today, P.O. Box 1042, Jackson 08527. Designate the donation for the Jackson Food Pantry.