BRIDGEWATER, NJ – In an effort to help reduce food insecurity in Somerset County, residents can now drop-off canned food and non-perishable items at the free Operation Secure Shred event on October 26. Donations will be distributed to local food banks to help the County’s new Curbing Hunger initiative.

The shredding event takes place at the Somerset County Public Works Garage, North County Facility, at 411 Chimney Rock Road, Bridgewater, NJ 08807 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., or until the trucks are filled. The event will occur rain or shine.

Drop-Off Guidelines

Residents should be prepared to unload food donations, and items to be shredded from their vehicles. Staff will be available to assist them if necessary.

Proof of Residency

Residents must be prepared to present a current driver's license, valid lease, tax bill or another proof of Somerset County residency. Pre-registration is not required. Businesses and commercial vehicles are NOT allowed.

Attend Any Shredding Event

Residents from all 21 Somerset County municipalities can attend as many shredding events as they like and can participate even if they do not reside in the towns that are holding the events. To view a list of dates and locations for shredding events, visit www.co.somerset.nj.us/shredding.

Items Accepted & Food Donations

Participants can bring up to six boxes, containers, or bags of documents per visit, but they will be required to take back their receptacles. Staples and paperclips do not have to be removed.

Residents can donate canned food and non-perishable items in reusable bags or boxes.

Items Not Accepted

Junk mail, magazines and newspapers will NOT be accepted.

For more information about “Operation Secure Shred,” contact the Somerset County Public Works Department at 908-203-6018 or email publicworks@co.somerset.nj.us.

Identity Theft

Victims of identity theft can visit the Federal Trade Commission’s online one-stop resource center, which provides a step-by-step process for recovering from identity theft with downloadable resources. To learn more, visit IdentityTheft.gov.

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