Burlington County continues to help in the fight to tackle hunger by providing assistance to local food pantries and other nonprofit organizations on the front lines in the fight against food insecurity.
The Burlington County Commissioners announced nine new grant awards totaling $178,339, from the County’s Grants for Food Banks and Food Pantries program. In just over two months, the County has now awarded more than $467,000 to 15 organizations providing food assistance.
“No resident should ever go hungry or have to sacrifice other basic needs to pay for adequate food for themselves or their family,” said Burlington County Commissioner Director Felicia Hopson. “Our County doesn’t just talk about fighting hunger and food insecurity, we’re taking action to deliver meaningful assistance to local organizations that provide a safety net for vulnerable families.”
The latest food pantry grants to be awarded include:
- Saint Charles Borromeo Conference, Cinnaminson: $6,000
- Saint Vicent DePaul Sacred Heart Conference, Mount Holly: $25,000
- Church of Saint Isaac Jogues, Marlton: $12,000
- Saint Mary’s Parish Ladle of Love, Burlington: $19,478
- Saint Vincent DePaul Society Our Lady of Good Counsel Conference, Moorestown: $12,686
- Saint Vincent DePaul Society, Holy Eucharist Conference Food Distribution Center, Tabernacle: $18,000
- Saint Mary Mother of the Church Parish, Bordentown: $24,000
- Beacon of Hope, Mount Holly: $28,421
- Christian Caring Center, Pemberton Township: $32,754
“The grants will help these organizations keep their shelves stocked and continue to serve those who need it,” said Hopson. “By aiding these organizations, we’re ensuring that help is available for residents and families in their own communities where they live and work, so transportation is less of an issue for them.”
Grant funding is still available for eligible nonprofit organizations providing food assistance to Burlington County residents. Grants are capped at $75,000. Funding can be used to purchase, distribute food, or acquire or upgrade equipment such as stoves, freezers, coolers, and shelving. To request an application email BurlcoFood@cgph.net or call 609-795-2503.
Nonprofits can also learn more about the program and receive technical assistance with their applications during a special workshop the Department of Human Services is hosting on Nov. 12 from 1 PM to 3 PM at the Burlington County Human Services Building, 795 Woodlane Road, Westampton. Organizations planning to attend are asked to RSVP by calling 609-795-2503 or email BurlCoFood@cgph.net .
In addition to creating the grant program, Burlington County has updated its online directory of Food Pantries and Hot Meals Resource Guide. The 19-page guide provides a comprehensive list of locations and contact information for food pantries operating in the county, along information about free hot meals for those in need. The guide can be found at https://www.co.burlington.nj.us/DocumentCenter/View/19940/FOOD-PANTRY-BOOKS-PDF .
“Fresh, nutritious food is essential for good health. We need to end the stigma many low-income families face when asking for assistance and make sure residents who require help feel comfortable reaching out for it,” said Hopson.