MOORESTOWN, NJ -- Earlier this summer, Senator Troy Singleton rolled out his "Food Truck Fridays" program as part of his ongoing commitment to address food insecurity. In just the few months, 1,150 meals have been provided to children and families in need throughout Burlington County.

Each Friday, from July 10 until August 28, the Senator distributed meals that consisted of a 10-inch hoagie, chips, ice pops, and a beverage. He partnered with school districts in these towns so that they could promote the effort to families who receive free/ reduced lunches. In all, the food truck stopped in 9 towns throughout the 7th Legislative District: Willingboro, Florence, Beverly, Burlington City, Cinnaminson, Bordentown, Riverside, Delran, and Palmyra. 

Singleton also noted his “Food Truck Friday” initiative served the dual purpose of not only addressing hunger, but supporting small businesses that have suffered as a result of the pandemic. 

"Food insecurity has been, and will continue to be, an issue I am very concerned about, especially in the wake of the pandemic and high rates of unemployment," said Singleton. "However, it is even more of a priority in the summer months when many children do not have access to their school lunch programs. That is why we partnered with our local school districts to make sure these meals got to those families who need them the most." 

Singleton hired the "Wanna Pizza This?" food truck; a local Burlington County-based small business, to provide lunches to hundreds of residents in his district.

"I am so appreciative to 'Wanna Pizza This?' for being ready and willing partners with us. For so many food trucks, their business was negatively impacted by the cancellation of so many events and festivals over the past few months. Through 'Food Truck Fridays' we not only made sure kids were fed this summer, but we also supported this locally-owned small business, as well," said Singleton.

Burlington County representatives attended the events so families could learn about Burlington County Human Services’ programs that are available, and also to remind them to complete the 2020 Census. The Senator also invited BookSmiles, a South Jersey based book bank, to come and distribute bags of age appropriate books to children.

Singleton also collaborated with the Food Bank of South Jersey to host a pop-up food bank in Riverside in June. As a result, Burlington County residents received 1,920 gallons of milk, 2,500 lbs of chicken fingers, 900 whole chickens, 500 boxes of produce, and 500 boxes of pantry items. This effort provided food to 934 people and 245 households. 

Original Article