Family Support Resources

We care. You’re not alone.

Across New Jersey, many families are feeling the weight of uncertainty as federal SNAP benefits pause—and we know that concern can reach right to the dinner table. At Linden Public Schools, we want every family to know this: we care deeply, and we stand beside you.

Our commitment goes beyond classrooms—it’s about community. Below you’ll find trusted food, housing, and family assistance resources ready to help bridge the gap and bring peace of mind. Together, we’ll navigate this moment with compassion, connection, and the unwavering Linden spirit that keeps us strong.

🚨 Critical Alert: SNAP Benefits and Immediate Food Relief

Important Update for SNAP Recipients

The federal government has notified New Jersey that November SNAP benefits will not be available on time if a federal government shutdown continues. SNAP is a vital resource in our state, helping more than 800,000 people across 400,000 households afford nutritious foods.

  • Impact: Almost half of the recipients are children, nearly 1 in 3 are individuals with a disability, and 1 in 5 are over 60 years old.

If you receive SNAP benefits, please note: SNAP benefits loaded onto Family First EBT cards before October 31 will be available for use after November 1. We encourage you to check your account at NJFamiliesFirst.com or call 800-997-3333 before grocery shopping after November 1st.

Union County "Stock the Shelves" Food Drive

Union County is leading a countywide effort called "Stock the Shelves" to strengthen local food-security networks in light of this uncertainty.

How You Can Help:

Non-perishable food and essential household item collections begin November 3rd.

Current Drop-Off Locations:

  • Union County Prosecutor’s Office (32 Rahway Ave, Elizabeth)

  • Union County Public Safety (400 North Ave East, Westfield)

  • Union County Public Works & Engineering (2371 South Ave, Scotch Plains)

Needed Items Include: Canned goods (vegetables, meat, soup) , dry goods (rice, pasta, cereal) , personal care (soap, deodorant, feminine hygiene) , and baby care essentials (formula, diapers).

For a full list of items and updated drop-off sites, visit ucnj.org/food-drive.

🤝 Essential Family & Community Resources

Comprehensive County Resource Guides (PDF)
For detailed support on food, housing, mental health, and more, consult the official Union County Department of Human Services Resource Guides.

Union County 2025 Resource Guide (English)
A complete guide listing hundreds of local and county programs, including Food Pantries (Page 5), Housing Assistance (Page 9), and Mental Health services[cite: 231].

Guía de Recursos del Condado de Union 2025 (Español)
La guía completa en español con información detallada sobre Despensas de Alimentos, Asistencia de Vivienda, y más[cite: 1163].

Immediate External Links and Services

Use these links and phone numbers for immediate, 24/7 assistance:

  • New Jersey 211


    24/7 confidential resource to connect you to thousands of non-profit programs and government services, including food, housing, utilities, and crisis intervention.

  • New Jersey Basic Needs Hub


    Official state resource to find and access food assistance programs, including WIC and general help finding a food pantry.

  • Community Food Bank of New Jersey (CFBNJ)


    Information on how to find a food pantry partner in your neighborhood and apply for SNAP.

    • https://cfbnj.org/

    • Text Line (CFBNJ): Text "FindFood" (English) or "Comida" (Spanish) to (908) 224-7776 to find food information in seconds.

  • List of Union County Food Pantries

    An additional list of food assistance sites operating throughout Union County.

Local Elizabeth/Linden Area Food Pantries

The Union County Department of Human Services provided a list of local food pantries for families in the immediate area:

  • Salvation Army - Elizabeth

    • 1005 E Jersey St, Elizabeth, NJ 07201

  • Jefferson Park Ministries

    • 70 W Grand St, Elizabeth, NJ 07202 (Also provides diapers and women's hygiene products)

  • Saint Mary of the Assumption Church

    • 155 Washington Ave, Elizabeth, NJ 07202

  • St Joseph Social Service Center

    • 118 Division St, Elizabeth, NJ 07201 (Also provides clothing)

  • Elizabethport Presbyterian Center (EPORT)

    • 154 First St, Elizabeth, NJ 07206 (Limited baby food and diapers available)

  • Heard AME Church

    • 310 E Eighth Ave, Roselle, NJ 07203 (Limited personal care items available)