TOMS RIVER – Ocean County officials have declared a State of Emergency to protect vulnerable residents following the suspension of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which has left many seniors and children struggling to meet basic nutritional needs.
The emergency declaration empowers the County to take swift action to safeguard residents’ health and well-being by mobilizing resources and coordinating with key departments to provide food assistance.
“We have prepared the appropriate documents to declare the State of Emergency, and the Commissioners have authorized that I begin the formalities to develop an emergency program,” said County Administrator Michael Fiure. “We are monitoring this situation closely and will provide updates as things progress.”
Under the declaration, the County is authorized by state statutes N.J.S.A. 40A:4-46 et seq. and N.J.S.A. 40A:11-6 to make emergency appropriations and expedite purchasing and contracting for food programs.
Efforts will be coordinated through the Ocean County Department of Human Services, Office of Senior Services, Veterans Service Bureau, Ocean County Board of Social Services, and local food security partners to ensure aid reaches those most in need.
Additional details about benefit distribution will be posted on the County’s website at www.co.ocean.nj.us and through official social media channels as they become available.
