Full Notification

I want to provide an important update regarding SNAP benefits and food assistance in our community. Following a federal court ruling, the federal government has been directed to fully fund SNAP for the month of November. Thanks to the efforts of Governor Phil Murphy, those in need in New Jersey were able to receive their SNAP benefits on their EBT cards as of Friday, Nov. 7. This is a critical lifeline for many families, and we are grateful for the Governor’s leadership in ensuring access to these essential benefits.

However, the situation remains uncertain. The Trump administration has sought a Supreme Court stay on paying full SNAP benefits, and while there has been some movement toward ending the federal government shutdown, there is still no clear timeline for when it could be fully lifted or when normal federal operations will resume. I recognize how stressful and frightening this instability can be for households that depend on SNAP and the City will continue to monitor developments closely so that we can keep the community informed. 

Last Friday, the Hoboken Community Center Food Pantry distributed 743 bags of food to community members in need, a 24% increase compared to last month. The need for food assistance in Hoboken remains significant, and we are so grateful to the many individuals, organizations, and neighbors who have generously donated food, funds, and time to help. Your compassion and generosity are a testament to what makes Hoboken such a special place. 

The next distribution will be on Friday, Nov. 21, from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. at the following locations:

• Hoboken Community Center, 1301 Washington St.
• Multi-Service Center, 124 Grand St.
• Hoboken Housing Authority, 221 Jackson St.

City Hall will continue to serve as a donation site, and I encourage anyone who can contribute to donate items, including dried pasta, instant oatmeal, canned tuna, canned chicken, full-sized toothpaste, bars of soap, and clean reusable tupperware containers to 94 Washington St., between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. until Dec. 31. These donations will be distributed to The Hoboken Community Center Pantry, Hoboken Shelter, and St. Matthew’s Lunchtime Ministry. 

Residents seeking additional food assistance may visit local programs such as:

• St. Matthew’s Lunchtime Ministry:  731 Washington St., providing meals Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
• Hoboken Shelter: 300 Bloomfield St., offering meals daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. for those experiencing homelessness.

Thank you to everyone who has stepped up to support our neighbors during this challenging time. Your compassion and community spirit continue to have a real impact and are examples of what makes Hoboken so special. 

Sincerely,
Ravi S. Bhalla
Mayor