This week’s newsletter is arriving a little later, and for good reason. I’ve spent the past several days meeting with the people and organizations stepping up for Central Jersey when residents need them most. My latest report looks at the tiny food pantry inside Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church in Rahway, where volunteers are trying to keep up as more families struggle to afford groceries.

Over the next few weeks, you’ll meet a Woodbridge couple running a region-wide toy drive, a Linden nonprofit rallying its neighborhood to support local children, and an HIV-prevention group in Plainfield fighting to stay afloat after losing federal funding. It’s the start of a holiday-season series focused on the people doing the quiet, essential work that holds our communities together.

The food bank at Zion Lutheran Church in Rahway has become a busy mid-week stop in a neighborhood where families already struggling with rent, utilities, and medical bills suddenly cannot afford to pay for food. When federal food assistance was suspended during the government shutdown, it forced low-income people and families to rely more on a loose system of food pantries that volunteers said was already under strain. Even after aid was restored, higher food prices have placed healthy foods like vegetables out of reach for many families.

Learn more, including how you can help →

The Shrewsbury Board of Education formally introduced its incoming members this month, following an uncontested election that will bring three new representatives onto the board in January. Kelly Fiorentini, Kristin Gaul-Spitale, and Jennifer Jafolla were elected earlier this month to three-year terms after running unopposed.

Learn more about the new board members →

The Woodbridge School Board approved a nearly $1.3 million mid-year budget adjustment at its meeting on Thursday, drawing the money from the district’s Maintenance Reserve. Mid-year adjustments are routine, and the transfer represents only a small portion of the district’s reserves, which totaled about $71 million as of Oct. 31, according to the meeting agenda. But the size of this year’s correction stands out. Last November, the board adjusted its budget by only $32,133 and did not draw from any reserve accounts. This year’s updated budget also reflects several federal funding changes.

Find out more →

Sunday, November 22, 2025 | 11 AM – 3 PM
Woodbridge High School | Adoption Fees Vary

Louie’s Legacy is kicking off its annual Home for the Holidays campaign to help cats and dogs find permanent homes before the new year. The drive features reduced-fee adoptions, foster opportunities, and special events aimed at placing as many pets as possible with loving families. Prospective adopters can browse available animals online and submit applications directly through the rescue.

More info →

Sunday, November 23, 2025 | 1 PM – 3 PM
Zimmerli Art Museum at Rutgers | Free Admission

The Zimmerli’s monthly Último Domingo returns with free museum admission and bilingual family programming. Visitors can explore current exhibitions, take part in hands-on art activities, and enjoy a welcoming environment designed for all ages. The event is part of the museum’s ongoing effort to engage Central Jersey’s diverse communities through accessible cultural programming.

More info →

Sunday, November 23, 2025 | 12:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, Scotch Plains | Free Community Event

IHM Parish is hosting a neighborhood Friendsgiving open to all, featuring food, fellowship, and a relaxed afternoon to connect with community members. Attendees are encouraged to bring a dish if they can, but it’s not required — everyone is welcome. The event offers a warm, family-friendly gathering heading into Thanksgiving week.

More info →

Tuesday, November 25, 2025 | 6:30 – 7:30 PM
Port Reading Firehouse, Woodbridge | Free Admission

Woodbridge Township will welcome the holiday season with the annual Port Reading Tree Lighting, featuring carols, festive displays, and a visit from Santa. Families can enjoy hot cocoa and holiday activities while watching the community tree come to life. The celebration is hosted by Port Reading’s local fire companies and township officials.

More info →

Monday, November 24, 2025 | 6:30 PM – 8 PM
Iselin Branch Library | Free Program

The Iselin Branch Library invites knitters of all skill levels to join Knit 4 Joy!, a relaxed weekly gathering for anyone who loves knitting, crocheting, or crafting with yarn. Attendees can bring their own projects, get help from fellow crafters, and enjoy a friendly space to create and connect. Beginners are welcome and no registration is required.

More info →

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As always, you can see even more events on The Central Jerseyan website. See the full events calendar ➝

Have an event you’d like included in this newsletter or a tip for a local news story? You can simply reply to this newsletter or contact me here ➝

Have a great weekend!