Supplies low, demand high at food bank, soup kitchens NEW BRUNSWICK - Officials from Middlesex County's emergency food network have issued a plea for food donations to help meet increasing demand from the county's neediest residents. A serious shortage of supplies is being felt at the food bank and at the more than 60 food pantries and soup kitchens throughout the county that belong to the network, said Jennifer Apostol, coordinator of the Middlesex County Food Organization and Outreach Services (MCFOODS). "We need your help to replenish supplies and help our less-fortunate neighbors. Food donations tend to fall after the holidays, but hunger doesn't," Apostol said. Corporations and civic and social clubs are being asked to help by sponsoring food drives. Apostol said sponsoring a food drive is easier than people might think. "We'll provide fliers to advertise the food drive and containers for storage, and we will pick up all donations," she said. "All you have to do is encourage the people who work for your company or the members of your group to participate." The most urgently needed items include nonperishables such as canned meats and pastas, stews, canned milk, tomato products, cereal, rice, tuna fish, vegetables, fruits, pasta, peanut butter and jelly. Personal products such as soap, shampoo, deodorant and toothpaste, and diapers and baby wipes are also in short supply. County residents may donate canned and nonperishable food items year-round at MCFOODS drop-off sites, which include the public libraries in Edison, Milltown, Monroe, North Brunswick, Plainsboro, South Brunswick and Woodbridge. Grocery store gift certificates are also accepted. For more information about donating or sponsoring a food drive, call MCFOODS at (732) 729-0880.