NJ governor commits to fighting hunger, poverty

from Forbes

New Jersey Governor recommitted to fighting poverty after a visit to a food bank on Wednesday. Gov. Jon S. Corzine said it is really important now with inflation problems in the state. - Kale

By ANGELA DELLI SANTI

"This is crunch-time out on Main Street," Corzine said. "I encourage the citizens of New Jersey to stand up, stand strong together to make sure we do everything in a time of economic stress."

"We can all make a difference by contributing," Corzine said while visiting the Community Food Bank of New Jersey in Hillside.

The governor said despite the state's dire budget difficulties, the Food Purchase Program continued to be funded at last year's level: $4 million for staples to the state's six emergency feeding centers. The centers, in turn, distributed goods to 660 food pantries, homeless shelters and soup kitchens.

The money allows food banks to buy fresh fruits and vegetables, which stimulates the local economy and helps provide a nutritious diet to those needing food donations, said Agriculture Secretary Charles Kuperus.

The first $1 million in state funds was distributed last week, including an $800,000 check to the Community Food Bank.

Corzine promised to continued to highlight hunger and poverty in events through the fall.

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