Remarks by REPLENISH Director Jennifer Apostol
(MIDDLESEX COUNTY, NJ) -- Students, families, teachers, and school staff across Middlesex County are continuing to make a powerful impact in the fight against food insecurity through their ongoing support of REPLENISH. During the 2025–2026 school year, 106 schools participated in food drives that collectively donated more than 77,000 pounds of food to support Middlesex County families struggling to meet their basic needs.
On Wednesday, May 27, 2026, the Middlesex County Board of County Commissioners recognized the top 10 schools whose combined food drives collected more than 27,750 pounds of donations, demonstrating the extraordinary generosity and community spirit of the County's students and their families. The Board of County Commissioners also honored James Monroe Elementary School in Edison for its exceptional leadership in educating students about food insecurity and inspiring them to take meaningful action. Through innovative learning initiatives and hands-on opportunities, the school empowered students to better understand the challenges facing local families while fostering compassion, civic engagement, and pride in making a lasting difference in their community.
"Year after year, our students, families, educators, and school communities continue to show what is possible when people come together to support one another," said Middlesex County Commissioner Director Ronald G. Rios. "The overwhelming success of these school food drives reflects the compassion, generosity, and civic spirit that defines Middlesex County. Every donation collected helps ensure local families have access to nutritious food and critical support during difficult times."
"Food insecurity remains a reality for many families across Middlesex County, which is why community support is more important than ever," said Middlesex County Commissioner and Chair of the Community Services Committee Claribel A. Azcona-Barber. "The incredible dedication shown by our schools serves as a powerful reminder that even small acts of kindness can make a meaningful difference. We encourage residents, businesses, and community organizations to continue donating to REPLENISH so that families throughout our County have access to the food and resources they need."
Top 10 Participating Schools Recognized included Old Bridge High School, Monroe Township Middle School, East Brunswick High School, Irwin Elementary School, South Brunswick High School, Private Nicholas Minue Elementary School, Applegarth Elementary School, Edison Academy Magnet School, Knollwood Elementary School, and John Kenney Schil Care Center.
HOW TO HELP: As food insecurity continues to impact households across the County, REPLENISH remains committed to connecting residents with healthy food and essential resources through its network of food pantries and community partners.
To help keep its shelves stocked, REPLENISH accepts donations of non‑perishable foods and basic supplies year-round. Individuals can drop items off from 6:00am to 1:00pm, Monday through Friday, at the REPLENISH Distribution Center at 28 Kennedy Boulevard, around the back of the building.
Monetary donations are also welcome and may be made by check payable to "Feeding Middlesex County." Checks can be mailed to PO Box 781, Edison, NJ 08818, or donors may contribute online at feedingmiddlesexcounty.org.
To learn more about REPLENISH, make a donation, or explore volunteer opportunities, please visit middlesexcountynj.gov/replenish.
Middlesex County is bettering the lives of residents and providing economic growth opportunities to business and industry. Home to several Fortune 500 companies, three universities, 21 county parks, and world-class healthcare and research facilities, Middlesex County is one of the nation's most dynamic regions — and a leader in life sciences, transportation, the arts, and food innovation. With more than 860,000 residents across 25 municipalities, Middlesex County is among the most diverse areas in the United States. Its award-winning Middlesex County Magnet Schools and two-year Middlesex College strengthen the County's reputation as New Jersey's leader in education and workforce development.
