Mayor Tony Vauss Unites Irvington in a Groundbreaking Community Response to Food Insecurity and SNAP Funding Delays

Irvington, NJ — As federal delays in SNAP benefits create fear and uncertainty for families across New Jersey, Mayor Tony Vauss has launched a comprehensive, community-wide initiative to ensure that no Irvington resident goes hungry. Rooted in faith, love for community, and a deep sense of shared responsibility, this initiative represents one of the most coordinated food security efforts ever undertaken in the township.

In a heartfelt letter to residents, employees, business owners, and faith leaders, Mayor Vauss called for unity and collaboration during this critical moment. His message emphasized that Irvington’s greatest strength has always been its people — and that the township will stand together to protect one another.

A Crisis Met With Immediate and Compassionate Action

When SNAP funding stalled, Mayor Vauss moved without hesitation. Partnering with Essex County Executive Joseph DiVincenzo and local community organizations, the township hosted a major emergency food distribution on November 13 at the D. Bilal Beasley Community Center. The event provided critical relief to families blindsided by federal inaction.

But as Mayor Vauss explained in his direct communications to the community, this effort is not simply crisis management — it is a reflection of who Irvington is:

A community grounded in love, faith, and resilience.
A family that refuses to allow its neighbors to suffer.
A township that rises together, no matter the challenge.

A Unified Approach: The Irvington Community Food Response Coalition

In a first-of-its-kind initiative, Mayor Vauss established the Irvington Community Food Response Coalition, bringing together:

• Municipal departments
• The Irvington Public School District
• Nonprofits and trusted food providers
• Churches, mosques, and synagogues
• Local businesses and property owners
• Healthcare partners
• Volunteers, block captains, and resident leaders

This coalition functions as a township-wide emergency support network designed to ensure no family falls through the cracks — a model now being recognized throughout the county as an innovative and effective community response structure.

“This is Irvington at its best — united, organized, and stronger together.”

Direct Outreach and Community Communication

To reinforce solidarity and encourage broad participation, Mayor Vauss personally communicated with thousands of residents through letters, emails, and direct outreach. His message was simple:

Every household matters. Every act of kindness counts. Every resident can make a difference.

This transparent, compassionate, and steady communication has strengthened public trust and galvanized an extraordinary level of civic engagement.

A Call to Serve: Mobilizing an Entire Township

Mayor Vauss issued an urgent call to action, inviting municipal employees, first responders, educators, faith leaders, business owners, and residents to contribute. He encouraged Township and School District employees to donate 5 to 10 turkeys for families in need and asked all residents to donate, volunteer, and identify neighbors who may require assistance.

Ways to support include:

• Donations: Non-perishable food, turkeys, household essentials, or financial support
• Volunteerism: Food distribution, transportation for seniors, outreach to vulnerable households
• Community leadership: Checking on neighbors and connecting them to available resources

“Food insecurity is not just a policy failure — it is a test of our collective responsibility. When others fall short, we rise together.” — Mayor Tony Vauss

Ongoing Community Events Serving Thousands

Irvington is continuing to host major food distributions and community support events, including:

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

In a show of his commitment to the community, Mayor Tony Vauss will be visiting the Lebby C. Jones Senior Theater and senior buildings throughout Irvington on Tuesday, November 25, to personally deliver turkeys, chickens, and bags of food exclusively to seniors and residents. Additionally, on Monday, November 24, the Mayor will host a Thanksgiving luncheon for seniors at 12 noon at the Lebby C. Jones Theater, located on Springfield Avenue in Irvington, New Jersey. This personal involvement underscores the Mayor's dedication to uplifting Irvington's senior citizens, especially during the holiday season.

The impact of Mayor Tony Vauss's initiative has already been remarkable, with many seniors experiencing newfound access to essential resources. His dedication to the community shines through in every action, demonstrating that when we come together, we can achieve extraordinary results.

In the past week alone, Mayor Vauss has personally distributed food, turkeys, and essential supplies — reinforcing his belief that leadership begins with service.

Leadership Grounded in Faith, Purpose, and Love for Community

Mayor Vauss has long described his work as more than public duty. For him, it is a calling rooted in faith, humanity, and devotion to the people of Irvington. His approach embodies:

• Faith in God and reliance on shared values
• Love for community and commitment to every resident
• Justice and dignity for the vulnerable
• Strength and resilience in moments of crisis
• Unity across all sectors of public life

He believes deeply that:

• Communities are strongest when they stand as one.
• Crises reveal our character and deepen our resolve.
• Every resident deserves care, respect, and protection.
• No one in Irvington should ever face hardship alone.

A Community That Rises Together

Through this initiative, Irvington is not waiting for federal action. The township is taking responsibility for its own, demonstrating compassion in action and unity in purpose.

With the leadership of Mayor Tony Vauss and the engagement of the entire community, Irvington is proving that:

We do not back down.
We do not leave anyone behind.
We take care of one another — always.