Perth Amboy’s food pantries have seen an increase in demand, as people struggle with the long range impact of the government shutdown and affordability crisis.

The poverty rate in Perth Amboy, NJ, is approximately 19.7% to 20%, which is significantly higher than the rates for both Middlesex County and New Jersey as a whole. Perth Amboy’s food insecurity was recently highlighted in a feature article by The Atlantic magazine called The Shutdown is Over but the Damage is Done.

Many people have been asking where they can donate in Perth Amboy to help feed families in need. The City of Perth Amboy has a list of food pantries that you can support.

Residents who need help can contact the Department of Human Services at 732-826-0290, extensions 4321 or 4323.