Gov. Phil Murphy signed a bill on Wednesday that directs $10 million from the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act to the New Jersey Department of Agriculture to be distributed among seven food banks in the state, including Mercer Street Friends in Trenton.

The funding is being provided so that the food banks can continue to provide food to families that are suffering during the pandemic.

Mercer Street Friends in Trenton will receive $1.1 million. The Community Food Bank of New Jersey will receive $5.2 million. The Food Bank of South Jersey and Fulfill Monmouth & Ocean will each receive $1.5 million. Norwescap and the Southern Regional Food Distribution Center will each receive $300,000, and Farmers Against Hunger will receive $100,000.

“Food banks carry out a crucial and valuable role in serving the food insecure for all communities throughout New Jersey,” New Jersey Department of Agriculture Secretary Douglas Fisher said. “This funding will help ensure access to meals and the necessary assistance for those who may find themselves in need of a helping hand during a time of stress.”