A newly formed Mercer County Office of Food Security hopes to impact a growing issue of food insecurity and hunger. Mercer County Executive Dan Benson signed an ordinance passed by the Mercer County Board of Commissioners that established the department. “Food insecurity is a silent epidemic, one that afflicts even the wealthiest counties and states,” said County Executive Benson. “In Mercer County, we’re fortunate to work with dedicated service providers who work with families, the unhoused, people living with disabilities, and those struggling with substance abuse issues. Still, many of these partners are struggling to meet their clients’ needs, including basic meals. This new office will help fill the gap to ensure Mercer County residents don’t go hungry.” The new Office of Food Security, will be under the jurisdiction of the Department of Human Services, and is funded through an American Rescue Plan (ARPA) grant secured by Mercer County. The office will direct funding to invest with agencies, partners, and organizations that are dedicated to fighting hunger in Mercer County. “The Office of Food Security will work with area organizations and find innovative ways to address food insecurity, because no one should be forced to live without basic needs like nutritious food,” said Taraun Tice McKnight, Esq., Deputy County Administrator and Director of the Department of Human Services. According to Mercer Street Friends which operates a Food Bank that reaches food pantries, households, and clients throughout Mercer County, over 10% of Mercer County residents are food insecure. The problem is even more acute in the Capital City where 27% of Trenton residents – and 37% of Trenton children – live below the poverty line. A press release noted support from Mercer County Commissioner Chair John Cimino and Commissioner Vice-Chair Kristen McLaughlin for the new initiative.