Essex County Sheriff Amir D. Jones marked his first Thanksgiving in office by continuing a cherished tradition and extending support to more families in need. Every year for over 30 years, the Sheriff’s Office has organized Thanksgiving food distributions, primarily focusing on Newark’s most vulnerable residents. This year, however, Sheriff Jones recognized the growing need across the entire county.
The day kicked off at the Essex County Sheriff’s Holiday Headquarters in Cedar Grove, where officers loaded hundreds of turkeys and festive boxes filled with goodies into delivery vehicles. Sheriff Jones visited longstanding partners like St. John’s Food Kitchen and Missionaries of Charity–St. Augustine, while also reaching out to new partners in East Orange, Montclair, and elsewhere.
At each stop, turkeys and holiday boxes were handed out to local families, ensuring over 1,000 households could enjoy a Thanksgiving meal together. In total, 600 turkeys and 400 holiday boxes were delivered to more than 40 organizations, helping many who faced high food costs and reduced SNAP benefits.
Sheriff Jones, the first African American Sheriff in the county’s history, stated, “This year felt especially important to reach farther. It’s been a hard year for many families, and we want them to know they are valued and cared for.”
A recent survey reveals that food insecurity has grown in many areas, with families struggling to find affordable meals. Jones’s efforts reflect a broader movement among local leaders to address these critical issues. By expanding the reach of the Thanksgiving distribution, the Sheriff’s Office not only honored a long-standing tradition but also responded to the shifting needs in Essex County.
Collectively, these actions remind families they are not alone during tough times, reflecting the commitment of local leaders to community well-being. When communities come together, hope grows.
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