By: Staff
As the federal SNAP delay leaves families across New Jersey facing fear and confusion, Irvington has responded with something stronger than panic — unity, compassion, and a Mayor who refuses to let his community face hardship alone.
A Crisis Met With Immediate and Compassionate Action
The moment the crisis became clear, Mayor Tony Vauss moved with urgency and heart.
Partnering with Essex County Executive Joseph DiVincenzo and local community organizations, the Township held a major emergency food distribution on November 13 at the D. Bilal Beasley Community Center.
For many families blindsided by the disruption, that support arrived just in time.
But for Mayor Vauss, this was more than an event — it was an expression of who Irvington is at its core:
A community anchored in faith.
A people shaped by love and loyalty.
A township strengthened by resilience and shared hope.
“In Irvington, we do not let one another struggle in silence,” Mayor Vauss said. “We walk through hardship together.”
A Family, Not Just a Township: The Irvington Community Food Response Coalition
To protect every household during this crisis, Mayor Vauss formed the Irvington Community Food Response Coalition — a united front of:
- Township departments
- Irvington Public Schools
- Nonprofits and food providers
- Churches, mosques
- Local businesses
- Healthcare partners
- Volunteers, block captains, and resident leaders
This coalition is more than a system — it is a family network, organized to ensure that no child goes hungry, no senior is forgotten, and no household feels alone.
“This is Irvington’s spirit — united, organized, and carrying one another through,” Mayor Vauss said.
A Mayor’s Message: “Every Family Matters to Me.”
Over the past several weeks, Mayor Vauss has reached out to residents with words of reassurance, clarity, and care.
Through letters, emails, calls, and in-person conversations, he has reminded the community of a simple truth: We are stronger together than any crisis we face.
His steady presence and heartfelt communication have brought comfort to countless families who feared they might be forgotten.
A Call From the Heart: Serve With Love
Mayor Vauss issued an earnest call to action, inviting Township employees, School District staff, first responders, educators, clergy, business owners, and residents to support families in need.
He encouraged staff to donate 5–10 turkeys and asked everyone to share in the responsibility of lifting the community.
Residents were invited to help by:
- Donating food, essentials, or holiday meals
- Volunteering at food distributions
- Delivering meals to seniors and homebound residents
- Checking on neighbors
- Identifying households facing quiet hardship
“Food insecurity is not just about hunger,” Mayor Vauss said. “It is about dignity. It is about humanity. And when our families hurt, we answer with love.”
Serving With His Own Hands:
Events Helping Thousands
Grab & Go Lunch Giveaway
November 24, 2025 – 12 PM to 2 PM
Irvington Neighborhood Improvement Center
Thanksgiving Turkey Giveaway
November 25, 2025 – 11:30 AM
Transcend Outreach Center
In partnership with Pastor Jerry Smith, Rabbi Abe Friedman & Craig Mainor Senior Thanksgiving Luncheon & Deliveries
November 24–25, 2025
Lebby C. Jones Senior Theater & senior buildings across Irvington
Mayor Vauss will personally visit senior buildings throughout the township — delivering turkeys, chickens, and food bags by hand.
This is not symbolic. It is the way he leads each year.
He has spent hours distributing food and supplies himself because he believes leadership means showing up — with humility, with love, and with open hands.
The Strength of Irvington: Each Other The Irvington Emergency Food Security Alliance continues to expand, welcoming donors, volunteers, and organizations who want to make a difference.
Families are being supported. Seniors are being cared for. Neighbors are stepping up for neighbors.
“In moments like these, we rediscover who we are,” Mayor Vauss said. “We are a people of faith, compassion, and extraordinary resilience. And together, we will overcome this challenge, just as we have overcome so many before.”
Hope, Gratitude, and the Road Ahead
While uncertainty remains at the federal level, Irvington’s response has shown something powerful:
When a community chooses love over fear, no challenge is too great.
“I am deeply grateful for every person who has given their time, donations, or kindness,” Mayor Vauss said. “This crisis has tested us — but it has also reminded us of our strength. Irvington is a family. And I am honored, truly honored, to serve alongside you.”
Need Help or Want to Volunteer?
Irvington Neighborhood Improvement Corporation;
Director: Josie Monel
346 16th Avenue, Irvington, NJ 07111
Phone: 973-416-0916
Email: jmonel@irvingtonnj.gov