Ocean County officials announced plans to declare a State of Emergency in response to the suspension of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which has caused significant hardship for vulnerable residents throughout the county.

The declaration will allow the County to take immediate steps to safeguard the health and welfare of at-risk residents—particularly seniors and children—who rely on SNAP benefits for essential nutrition.

“We have prepared the appropriate documents to declare the State of Emergency, and the Commissioners have authorized that I begin the formalities to develop an emergency program,” said County Administrator Michael Fiure. “We are monitoring this situation closely and will provide updates as things progress.”

Once enacted, the State of Emergency will authorize emergency appropriations and expedited purchasing and contracting for food assistance under N.J.S.A. 40A:4-46 et seq. and N.J.S.A. 40A:11-6. These measures will help the County provide rapid support to affected residents.

Efforts will be coordinated with the Ocean County Department of Human Services, Office of Senior Services, Veterans Service Bureau, Ocean County Board of Social Services, and local food security partners to ensure equitable and efficient aid distribution.

Residents will receive further information on where and how benefits will be distributed. Updates will be available on the County website at www.co.ocean.nj.us and through the County’s social media channels.