For the past eight years, Frank Ruiz has been a cornerstone of support for those in need in Bergen and Passaic Counties through his role at the Center for Food Action, a CFBNJ community partner. Frank’s journey into the nonprofit sector came unexpectedly after two decades in the corporate world.
“I worked at Markel Paper Mills for 20 years, running the shipping and receiving department. When the company went bankrupt, I got the opportunity to come here,” he explained.
Initially introduced to CFBNJ through his former boss, Frank quickly developed deep connections within the organization.
“Every single relationship that I’ve made throughout the years with any FoodBank representative has been outstanding,” he said.
One of Frank’s most memorable moments was meeting CFBNJ’s founder, Kathleen DiChiara, during an early visit to the Hillside headquarters. “I got to meet her in person and shake her hand,” he recalled. “She had done such an outstanding job throughout the community. Meeting her felt like meeting an icon.” This encounter left a lasting impression on Frank, strengthening his connection to the FoodBank’s mission.
At the heart of Frank’s work is logistics. “We serve 3,500 guests per month across five locations, Ringwood, Mahwah, Englewood, Hackensack, and Saddlebrook, where I run logistics,” he shared. “Every morning, we pick orders for each site, and drivers deliver them. In Saddlebrook alone, we see about 60 guests daily, while the other sites serve about 160 guests combined.”
Frank’s dedication goes beyond ensuring food reaches those in need; he strives to make every interaction with a neighbor meaningful. Recalling a poignant moment during his first year at CFA, he shared, “An elderly lady came in crying, saying she hadn’t eaten in two days. She asked for water, and I gave her three bottles and food. When I saw her torn shoes with her foot coming out, my coworker Grace took off her own shoes and gave them to her. That moment touched me deeply.”
For Frank, the holidays hold a special significance. “Around Thanksgiving and Christmas, when guests come with their children, I give the kids toys. Seeing their smiles has impacted me throughout the years. Every year, I make it my personal agenda to ensure there are toys for the kids. I just love it.”
Frank’s vision for the future reflects his unwavering hope. “My goal is to help our guests get back on their feet and never return here for food, even though I know it’s a difficult task, with hunger and prices rising. But working side by side with CFBNJ, we’re making a difference,” he said.
As he reflected on his role, Frank added, “It makes me wake up in the morning knowing I’m doing something for a good cause. I love this job.” His words encapsulate the passion and purpose he brings to his work, making a lasting impact on the community he serves.