South Jersey Communities Are Fighting Hunger: Collaborative Efforts, Volunteer Actions, and Ways You Can Help

As the holiday season comes closer, families across South Jersey are making plans for celebrations.

However, for many, this time of year highlights the ongoing struggle with food insecurity.

In response, local groups and volunteers are working hard to help those in need so that everyone can feel the warmth of the season.

In Camden, where more than 31% of people live in poverty, the need for support is critical.

To address this, the Salvation Army teamed up with the Food Bank of South Jersey to hand out over 1,000 turkey meals to preregistered families.

The event took place at the Camden Kroc Center on November 23 and gave much-needed help to families in one of the state’s most affected areas.

At the same time, the Food Bank of South Jersey continues to meet the increasing demand for assistance.

Each month, it supports about 170,000 people, which evidently shows how widespread the need has become.

This Thanksgiving, they distributed 30,000 turkeys, which is 6,000 more than last year.

And by the end of the year, the organization expects to distribute 25 million pounds of food, an increase of 3 million pounds from 2023.

Meanwhile, in Vineland, Inspira Medical Center showed its dedication to the community by preparing and distributing over 700 holiday meals.

Over three days, more than 150 volunteers worked in shifts to prepare these meals, which included 1,000 pounds of turkey.

Because they carefully considered dietary needs, the meals were safe and healthy for everyone, including those with diabetes or allergies.

In addition to the volunteers, leaders like David Mills, senior director of food and nutrition services at Morrison Healthcare, did their part to ensure everything ran smoothly.

Volunteers worked tirelessly, slicing pies, portioning cranberry sauce, and packaging meals with care.

Their efforts brought smiles to many and ensured the meals were ready for Thanksgiving morning.

Even though the holidays bring attention to the issue, hunger is a year-round challenge.

Feeding America reports that in 2022, 10.7% of people in New Jersey faced food insecurity.

Due to limited resources, seniors often must choose between food and medicine, while parents sacrifice their own meals so their children can eat.

Veterans transitioning to civilian life also face financial challenges that make it difficult to afford food.

The PSEG Foundation has pledged $250,000 to the Community Food Bank of New Jersey (CFBNJ) to fight the rising issue over the next three years.

The funding will support after-school meals, job training programs, and nutrition education to help individuals and families in need.

Earlier this November, PSEG employees worked with CFBNJ to distribute 548 cases of turkeys and 2,000-holiday boxes, providing over 57,000 meals as part of their Thanksgiving efforts.

In addition, PSEG works closely with organizations like the Food Bank of South Jersey and HomeFront.

The groups provide groceries, diapers, and school supplies to families in Burlington, Camden, Gloucester, and Salem counties.

So, struggling families can focus their limited income on other important needs, such as housing and healthcare.

The Food Bank of South Jersey focuses on providing nutritious and culturally appropriate meals, ensuring the diverse needs of their community are met with care and respect.

And finally, you can help, too.

By volunteering, donating, or raising awareness, you can play a part in the fight against hunger.

To learn more or find a food pantry near you, visit foodbanksj.org.

It’s commendable how South Jersey is making great strides in reducing hunger through teamwork and compassion.

Together, we can create a future where no one has to face hunger alone.