Trenton Health Team Launches NJ Statewide Food Insecurity Index Tool
by Trenton Health Team (THT) has officially launched the New Jersey Statewide Food Insecurity Index, a groundbreaking online tool designed to empower organizations and leaders across the state in the fight against food insecurity. This statewide expansion follows the successful rollout of the Mercer County Insecurity Food Index in November 2022, and the Tri-County version in October 2024, which included data from Middlesex and Somerset counties.
THT’s goal in expanding the Index statewide is to help organizations and leaders all across the state make data-driven decisions and craft effective strategies in addressing food insecurity in their communities. The development of the Index was a collaborative effort, incorporating feedback and input from over 75 organizations across New Jersey.
GIS & Data Analyst, Em Ostrowski, unveiling the NJ Statewide Food Insecurity Index for the first time at THT’s Food Stakeholders Meeting on June 24, 2025
The NJ Statewide Food Insecurity Index would not be possible without funding and support from the New Jersey Office of the Food Security Advocate. This partnership highlights a shared dedication to improving food security for all New Jersey residents.
Kathleen Hopkins, Senior Data Analyst at THT, says, “The NJ Statewide Food Insecurity Index pinpoints where people are really struggling to access food and identifies potential challenges, so decision-makers can take action with precision and purpose.”
The NJ Statewide Food Insecurity Index is now accessible online at trentonhealthteam.org/food. To learn more about the work Trenton Health Team does in food access, please contact Matthew Broad at mbroad@trentonhealthteam.org.
