Jan 12
6
2011 in Review: Some disappointment, some good news
Our goal in 2011 was to distribute 9.7 million pounds of food. The hard-working FBSJ staff coupled with the generous support of volunteers & donors enabled us to put out over 10.9 million pounds, surpassing the goal by more than a million pounds! (To put that in perspective, we distributed 9.2 million in 2010)
We had some major events in 2011 including the creation of FBSJ program Wonder Chefs, a nutrition education program developed for toddlers. The Food Bank of South Jersey also “changed the face of the SNAP program”–helping 749 individuals apply for food stamps and sharing best practices with other New Jersey food banks.
2011 was also a year of shortage. We experienced barren shelves in the warehouse, learned the need in south Jersey had increased from over 101,000 to over 171,000, and witnessed budget cuts on national and state levels. We learned a lot from Hungerstock, our first all-day concert event at the Riversharks Stadium in Camden. We also experienced a $300,000 windfall of funding.
Starting in September with Hunger Action Month, the Food Bank of South Jersey network of pantries, shelters, & kitchens gave customers the opportunity to share their experiences of hunger on paper plates. When the campaign ended, we sent the stories to NJ Governor Chris Christie. Over the same period of time, we asked our supporters to make calls to any and all government representatives to urge them not to cut food assistance program funding. Val Traore, FBSJ CEO, held a press release and asked network members also to write Christie.
These community efforts made a difference. In December of 2011, Christie announced that the Delaware River Port Authority would release funds promised to south Jersey back in 2009. The $2 million is marked to directly support programs & services to feed people in southern New Jersey. This money will be shared by FBSJ and the Community Food Bank of New Jersey’s Southern Branch.
Stephen Sweeney, NJ Senate President, was so impressed by the paper plate campaign that he wants to make a contribution toward our mission as well.
Now the Food Bank of South Jersey is finishing up preparations for the 3rd annual Mac Off. This year, the event will take place at the Scottish Rite Ballroom on White Horse Pike in Collingswood. The space is way larger, we have more chefs, and we’re excited for everyone to come out. Celeb chef Aaron McCargo, Jr., of The Chew will be one of our guest judges, and those who attend will have the opportunity to take celeb photos with him during the event. A popular winner will be chosen by those who want to caste their vote via mobile texting. We will also be selecting a raffle winner from among those who enter by providing us their name and email address. The event promises to be delicious and a lot of fun.
Also upcoming in 2012 is a cause marketing relationship with Deborah Smith’s 3 Square Deals, a daily deals program that will provide local NJ bargains for all things food while benefitting New Jersey food banks associated with their location. I am personally quite excited to link up local business with our mission and food-oriented folks in the community. Keep an eye out for more info and sign up now for 3 Square Deals in your area!
Food Procurement Managers Ernie & Mike secured a ton of great partnerships in 2011, including Hillcrest, Wawa, and BJs. Camden Agency Relations Manager Marie has been promoted to Senior Manager of Customer Service, and customer service is going to be a big focus this year. We are continually looking to improve in quality and efficiency. Also very exciting, for me at least!, is that I get to move on more communications & media projects.
Seems like great things are in store for the Food Bank of South Jersey in 2012. I hope you’ll stick with us and lend us your support. We anticipate some great events and opportunities for the entire community.
