CFBNJ can’t achieve its mission without the power of partnership. It takes the cooperation of all sectors of society to affect long-term change for our New Jersey neighbors. Last year, CFBNJ worked with a variety of partners to launch new initiatives, expand the capacity of our network, and more.
COMPANIES FUND NEW INITIATIVES
We partnered with the Horizon Foundation for New Jersey and the other four New Jersey food banks to launch “Growing Healthy Pantries,” a multi-year signature initiative focused on improving the health of neighbors in need. Through this program, food banks are creating a toolkit that will provide local food assistance organizations with resources to develop nutrition policy, provide wrap-around services, and encourage healthy food options. We also worked with the Prudential Foundation to explore new partnerships to help strengthen our Workforce Development programs and with more than 100 other companies that provide food, funds, and time to support our mission.
COMMUNITY PARTNERS HELP NEIGHBORS IN NEED
Last year alone, CFBNJ provided $1 million in grants to 31 community partners to help them serve more people and prepare for emergencies. We funded translation services for immigrant clients, a community garden, capacity for fresh produce distribution, and other innovative projects. We also responded to New Jersey’s single-use plastic bag ban by creating a reusable bag donation program that has helped our partners to continue distributing food quickly and efficiently while complying with the new law.
GOVERNMENT LEADERS AFFECT LONG-TERM CHANGE
Recently and with CFBNJ’s support, our government partners increased minimum SNAP benefits, expanded eligibility for free school lunches, and established a first-in-the-nation Office of the Food Security Advocate. They also aided in the fight against hunger by including a financial commitment to food banks in the state budget. Together, we’re making bold strides towards food security for all New Jersey residents.
VOLUNTEERS POWER OUR MISSION
CFBNJ’s day-to-day work isn’t possible without dedicated helping hands. In fiscal year 2022, volunteers made nearly 27,000 visits, donating close to 67,000 hours of their time. That’s equivalent to the work of 31 full-time employees! Our Care Crew – new to CFBNJ in 2022 – served as warehouse ambassadors to support CFBNJ staff. Our Women Fighting Hunger engaged in skilled volunteerism, supported outreach to our college pantries, and organized successful diaper and period product drives.
