By: Richard L. Smith

Essex County officials are preparing to help local families ahead of the holiday season with a major Thanksgiving food giveaway at Branch Brook Park.

According to information released by county officials, Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo Jr. and RWJBarnabas Health will distribute 1,000 frozen turkeys along with boxes of non-perishable items to residents dealing with food insecurity, inflation, and rising costs.

The event is scheduled for Monday, November 17, 2025, at 9 a.m. at the Cherry Blossom Welcome Center inside Branch Brook Park in Newark. The distribution will take place rain or shine and is first-come, first-served.

DiVincenzo said the effort aims to ensure families struggling with high food and energy costs have a meaningful Thanksgiving.

The e

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