Jersey Shore Care & Share offers a variety of services to ensure no one in our community goes hungry. Below are the monthly food distributions we provide.
Call: 570-398-1676
Email: jscareandshare@gmail.com
Requested Donation Item of the Month:
December: Peanut Butter
January: Scalloped Potatoes
February: Tuna packed in water
March: Peanut Butter
Donations can be placed in the red shed to the left of the glass doors.
Service #1: Drive-Thru Distribution
Every second Friday of the month, from 9 AM to 1 PM, we host a Drive-Thru Food Distribution event. Volunteers prepare and distribute essential food packages to families and individuals in need, rain or shine. In the event of extreme weather, please check the Jersey Shore Care & Share Facebook page for service updates
Service #2: Pantry Choice Walk-Through
On the Monday after the drive thru distribution of the month, from 4 PM to 5 PM hours will increase as needed, our pantry is open for a walk-through, where individuals can choose food items that meet their specific needs. Go through double doors, you are greeted, take you downstairs, you get to go through with shopping cart and pick out your choices from the options there.
Service #3: Peanut Butter & Jelly Distribution
On the last Monday of each month, from 9 AM to 5 PM, we distribute peanut butter and jelly to families and individuals in need as an extra effort. Put a cart outside the double doors with shopping bags, has one jar peanut putter one jar jelly and bread. Come and go as you please- this is a self help service.
Service #4: Senior Boxes
The Senior box program provides essential food items ensuring seniors in our community to have access to balanced meals. Eligibility is based on age (60+) and income qualifications and you must show proof of income for this program.
How to Receive Assistance – FAQ
How does the Drive-Thru Distribution work?
When you arrive on Thompson Street, follow the signs and traffic flow toward the distribution area. Volunteers will be stationed along the route to help guide you. First, youโll stop near the end of the church, where a team member will check you in and confirm any necessary information. Theyโll then place a numbered tag on your car to keep everything moving smoothly. Next, drive forward to the first station, where volunteers will load fresh produce and dairy directly into your vehicle. Continue to the next station for boxes of pre-packaged food items. You wonโt need to step out of your car at any pointโour volunteers will handle everything. The process is designed to be quick, contactless, and safe, ensuring you can receive your food. This event happens regardless of weather, so you can count on our team to be there rain or shine, ready to assist you! Incase of bad weather check our Facebook page to see if distribution is changed to a different day.
What do I need to bring to receive food assistance?
One Proof of Residency: ex. Piece of Mail, Phone bill, electric bill, driver’s license.
Do I need to pre-register or sign up?
No pre-registration is required for our food distributions. If it’s your first time, our friendly volunteers will register you the day of the distribution. Just show up at the event during the designated time.
Can I bring my children or family members with me to the distribution?
Yes, you are welcome to bring your children or family members to the distribution. If you have young children or need extra assistance, our volunteers are happy to help you.
What kinds of food can I expect to receive?
We provide a variety of nutritious items including fresh produce, pantry staples, eggs, milk, and proteins. The selection will vary each month, but we work to offer balanced options. Our Pantry Choice Walk-Through also allows you to choose items based on your preferences or dietary needs.
Iโm feeling embarrassed or unsure about asking for help. What should I do?
Please know that there is no shame in asking for help. We understand that everyone needs support at different times. Our volunteers and staff are here to help you with kindness and without judgment. Everyone is welcome, no questions asked, and weโre here to make the process as easy and comfortable as possible.
Can I send someone to pick up food for me if I canโt make it?
Yes, you can have someone pick up food on your behalf. You must fill out a proxy form when you register each year or contact us and let us know that you are having someone else pick it up for you. They will need a piece of your mail with your name and address to show proof for whom they are picking the food up for. We want to ensure that everyone gets the help they need, even if they canโt attend in person.
Whatโs the best time to arrive at the distribution?
We recommend arriving after 10am, for the Drive-Thru Distribution, to avoid longer wait times. However, we ensure that everyone who arrives during the scheduled hours will receive assistance, even if you come toward the end of the event.