MARGATE - The Community FoodBank of New Jersey presented Jewish Family Service of Atlantic & Cape May Counties with a $20,000 grant to grow a healthier pantry. The funds will be utilized to outfit a new mobile food pantry truck with essential appliances including a refrigerator and freezer as well as storage bins, built-in shelving, and more.
The project is made possible through Growing Healthy Pantries: Community of Practice.
“With support from the Growing Healthy Pantries initiative, JFS is creating a more accessible, dignified, and choice-driven pantry experience,” foodbank Program Manager Jess Arends said. “JFS will enhance its on-site and mobile pantries with grocery-style displays, upgraded equipment, and technology. This will make their food distribution more efficient, inclusive, and neighbor-centered. CFBNJ is eager to begin this work together.”
"JFS is dedicated to providing food security across the region with an on-site food pantry and mobile distribution methods in communities identified as food deserts,” JFS Director of Food Security Begum Malali said. “This partnership with the CFBNJ highlights both organizations shared commitment to combating hunger and expanding access to healthy, nutritious food for people in need.”
In the first quarter of 2025, JFS distributed nearly 50,000 pounds of perishable and non-perishable foods and basic essentials to more than 4,520 households.
For more information on the JFS Food Pantry program, contact Begum Malali at bmalali@jfsatlantic.org or 609-822-1108, ext.170.
