Middlesex County Officials at new REPLENISH Cold Storage Unit - Commissioner Charles Kenny, Clerk Nancy J. Pinkin, Commissioner Leslie Koppel, Commissioner Director Ronald G. Rios, and REPLENISH Director Jennifer Apostol
(MIDDLESEX COUNTY, NJ) -- Middlesex County, through its food distribution program REPLENISH, is once again working to achieve food security this September as it observes Hunger Action Month. With a full calendar of events designed to raise awareness, mobilize resources, and inspire action, the County is calling on residents to join the movement to ensure that no neighbor goes hungry.
Since its founding, REPLENISH has been a cornerstone in the County’s fight to achieve food security — distributing millions of pounds of food and connecting families with resources that build long-term stability. Today, almost 90,000 Middlesex County residents, including 20,000 children, face food insecurity. To help address this urgent need, REPLENISH is launching its “31 Ways in 31 Days” campaign, giving residents daily opportunities to make a difference — whether by donating food, volunteering, or supporting community education.
To further strengthen its operations during Hunger Action Month and beyond, REPLENISH has significantly expanded its storage capabilities. With the addition of a new walk-in cold storage unit, refrigeration capacity has doubled from 20 to 40 pallets, while freezer storage will grow from 10 to 16 pallets. This critical upgrade was made possible through a $81,304 Network Investment Grant from the Community Food Bank of New Jersey (CFBNJ) awarded in February 2024, with additional support from Feeding Middlesex County to bring the total project investment to $255,998. Together, these enhancements are increasing efficiency, streamlining inventory management, and enabling REPLENISH to better organize, preserve, and distribute fresh, nutritious food to families across Middlesex County.
“Hunger Action Month is not just about awareness — it’s about action,” said Middlesex County Commissioner Director Ronald G. Rios. “Whether it’s donating food, volunteering your time, or advocating for stronger policies, every effort brings us closer to a future where no one has to worry about their next meal.”
"Food insecurity affects families in every corner of our County,” said Middlesex County Commissioner Claribel A. Azcona-Barber, Chair of the County’s Community Services Committee. “By coming together this September, we are sending a clear message: Middlesex County is a community that cares, acts, and ensures its neighbors are supported with dignity.”
“Hunger Action Month is a chance for us to showcase the power of partnerships and community,” said REPLENISH Director Jennifer Apostol. “With the addition of our new walk-in cold storage, we can preserve and distribute more fresh, healthy food than ever before — right when our neighbors need it most. Every event, every donation, and every conversation bring us closer to ending hunger. Together, we are building a stronger, healthier Middlesex County.”
Hunger Action Month Events in September
* Tuesday, September 9 from 6:00pm–8:00pm - Dine Below the Line – A lively community cooking competition at the Alexander Jankowski Community Center in Perth Amboy that showcases how to prepare healthy meals on a budget while raising awareness about the challenges many families face. Click here for more information, and to register.
* Saturday, September 13 from 8:00am–6:00pm - Feed Our Families Food Drive – REPLENISH will collect high-need food donations at Stop & Shop locations in East Brunswick and Monroe Township.
* Monday, September 22 from 10:00am–1:00pm - HSAC Policy Summit: Food Insecurity – At the ESCNJ Professional Conference Center in Piscataway, state leaders, policy experts, and local organizations will explore strategies outlined in the New Jersey Food Security Strategic Plan and highlight community-driven solutions. Registration is required. Click here to register.
* Wednesday, September 24 from 10:00am–1:00pm - The Senior Health and Fitness Walk – Held at Roosevelt Park in Edison, the event promotes senior wellness while REPLENISH collects food donations to support older residents in need. Click here for more information, and to register.
* Thursday, September 25 from 6:00pm–8:00pm - Hunger Heroes Cocktail Reception – Hosted by Feeding Middlesex County in partnership with REPLENISH at the Pines Manor, the event honors individuals and organizations making a difference in the fight against hunger. Click here for more information about the event.
The 2025 honorees include:
* Corporate Hunger Hero Award: Diane Pein, Approved Fire Protection Co., Inc
* Community Hunger Hero Award: Jared Gonsalves and Arvid Agosto Jr.
* Government Hunger Hero Award: Mayor John E. McCormac of Woodbridge
* Tom Ellison Food Pantry Volunteer Award: Dr. Deborah Patin, James O. and Wilhelmina Bryant Food Pantry, Piscataway
HELPING THOSE IN NEED BEYOND HUNGER ACTION MONTH
REPLENISH’s work continues year-round, powered by partnerships, donations, and volunteer support. Residents can help beyond September by:
* Donating food and basic supplies (including perishable items like meat, dairy, and produce) to the REPLENISH facility in East Brunswick during operating hours. Call 732-729-0880 for details.
* Making monetary contributions to Feeding Middlesex County by mailing checks to PO Box 781, Edison, NJ 08818, or donating online via their website feedingmiddlesexcounty.org.
For residents in need of food assistance, the Middlesex County Healthy Food Map is available at middlesexcountynj.gov/healthyfoodsmap, providing a comprehensive list of food pantries, farmers markets, and transportation routes.
Middlesex County is bettering the lives of residents and providing economic growth opportunities to business and industry. It is home to numerous Fortune 500 companies, three universities, 19 County parks, and world-class healthcare and research facilities, making it one of the nation’s most dynamic regions and a leader in life sciences, transportation, the arts, and food innovation. As one of the most diverse populations in the country, Middlesex County is home to over 860,000 residents living throughout 25 municipalities. The County's award-winning Middlesex County Magnet Schools system and two-year Middlesex College uphold its position as #1 in the state for education and workforce development. Conveniently located between New York and Philadelphia, Middlesex County is a leading destination for businesses and residents alike to live, work, and play – and has been since the 17th century.
