The Mobile Food Pantry is Coming to Galloway Township

The Food Bank’s Mobile Pantry is coming to the Galloway Township Municipal Complex’s parking lot.

Beginning Sept. 21, the Mobile Food Pantry from the Community FoodBank of New Jersey Southern Branch will be near the Post Office the third Wednesday of every month from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. The Food Bank is open to Galloway Township residents who have any of the following proofs of need: TANF, Food Stamps, SSI, WIC, Medicaid, Low Income (pay stub), or a referral from a social services agency.

Registration will be held Aug. 17 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Historical Room of the municipal complex, at which time proof of need is required. Proof of residency will also be required.

“The Community FoodBank of New Jersey Southern Branch distributes food to over 250 partner agency charities throughout Atlantic, Cape May, Cumberland and southern Burlington counties,” said Margie Barham, Executive Director of the Community FoodBank of New Jersey Southern Branch. “The need has been unprecedented in our history. In 2010 the FoodBank distributed over 7.1 million pounds of food, an increase of over 23% from the previous year and a 67 percent increase overall since 2008.”

The Food Bank also operates an Emergency Assistance Pantry for Egg Harbor Township residents.

The Mobile Food Pantry is a new service, and there is one other site currently in Egg Harbor City. That pantry was set up in November of 2010.

Barham said the municipal complex was chosen as the site in Galloway because it is the “hub of Galloway Township.” She said they needed a site with adequate room to park their 20-foot truck, and to set up tables for distribution and registration.

“Adequate parking is needed for participants as well as accommodations for elderly and disabled person,” Barham said. “A smooth or paved surface is preferred. Distribution runs about three hours, which includes set up, breakdown and clean up.

"I want to thank the Galloway Township officials for their cooperation. They have been most helpful as we launch this service and have been very accommodating."

The Food Bank has earned the highest ranking for sound fiscal management from the charity evaluation company, Charity Navigator. Charity Navigator awarded the Food Bank four stars for its ability to efficiently manage its donor’s funds. Barham said 96.5 percent of every dollar goes to support the Food Bank’s programs and feed those in need.