Union County to Host First Ever Food Security Summit: Empowering Local Providers to Combat Hunger & Promote Self Sufficiency

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is proud to announce the first-ever Union County Food Security Summit, which will be held on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, at Kean University Liberty Hall Academic Center. This groundbreaking event will unite local food pantries, soup kitchens, community leaders, and advocates to strengthen collaboration, share resources, and address food insecurity across the county.

"The Food Security Summit is a reflection of Union County's ongoing commitment to creating a community where no one has to worry about their next meal," said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. "By coming together, we can ensure that our local food pantries and soup kitchens have the resources they need to provide both immediate aid and long-term solutions to those in need. We are grateful to all who are contributing to this important work."

The summit takes place during the month of October, recognized nationally as "Tackling Hunger Month," emphasizing the critical need to address food insecurity. This event is a key part of Union County's ongoing efforts to combat hunger, and it provides an important opportunity to bring attention to the challenges faced by local food distribution organizations as they work to support residents in need.

The Union County Department of Human Services (DHS) and its partners will highlight the importance of community-based efforts to combat hunger and underscore the County's commitment to addressing food insecurity as part of its broader human services mission. Through this initiative, DHS is building a network that not only addresses immediate food needs but also connects individuals and families with services that promote economic independence and resilience.

"Addressing food insecurity requires constant innovation and collaboration, which is why events like this summit are so important. After participating in discussions at NJAC and learning about effective models, including those from Bergen County, I was motivated to bring those insights back to our Union County team to formulate our own program and summit," said Commissioner Sergio Granados, Liaison to the Union County Human Services Advisory Council. "This conference will help us identify new ways to combat hunger, foster self-sufficiency, and create a stronger network of support for our residents. We are grateful to everyone who is joining this critical conversation."

The event will feature expert-led workshops, Q&A discussions, and networking sessions designed to address the most pressing challenges faced by food pantries and soup kitchens. Key topics include:

• Best practices for food distribution and logistics
• Strategies for expanding outreach and maximizing resources
• Collaborating with local governments and nonprofits to enhance service delivery
• Connecting clients to comprehensive support services, including housing, employment, and mental health programs

The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites all local food service providers and community stakeholders to participate in this essential summit. To register for the event or for more information, please visit https://ucnj.org/food-summit/.

The Union County Department of Human Services is committed to providing programs and services that promote the well-being of County residents, with a special focus on vulnerable populations. Through partnerships with community organizations and agencies, DHS helps individuals and families achieve stability and self-sufficiency by addressing basic needs such as food, shelter, and healthcare while offering opportunities for economic growth and personal development.

For more information, please call the Union County DHS Action Line at 908-677-5405.

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