The arrival of the Coronavirus in northwestern New Jersey was accompanied by job uncertainty, economic hardship, and food insecurity for thousands of local residents. In response, Project Self-Sufficiency ramped up its already robust food distribution program, The Food Project, Nourishing our Neighbors. During the months of April, May, June and July, Project Self-Sufficiency provided 49,826 meals to 3,559 individuals, and distributed 14,236 bags of groceries. The agency offers free food and limited personal care products to Sussex and Warren County residents, Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Patrons need not be agency participants. “We are so grateful to our Board of Directors and the hundreds of individuals, local businesses, and corporate foundations whose tremendous support has enabled us to purchase food to meet this unprecedented need,” commented Project Self-Sufficiency Executive Director Deborah Berry-Toon. “This public health crisis has placed an overwhelming burden on some of the most vulnerable members of our community and we are exceptionally thankful for the donations we have received from individuals, businesses and other community organizations. The support from the community has been truly inspiring.”

In addition to monetary donations to purchase food, the agency is always in need of non-perishable items such as canned soups and stews; canned fruits and vegetables; fresh seasonal fruits and vegetables; frozen meals; coffee; tuna; pastas and sauces; peanut butter and jelly; toothpaste; shampoos and conditioners; hair care products; skin care products; laundry detergents; diapers and baby wipes; toilet tissue; facial tissue; and feminine hygiene products. During recent months, funding and food donations have been received from numerous foundations, small and large businesses, and hundreds of individuals. Crucial support has been received from the Albertson’s Foundation; The Ellman Discovery Foundation; Jim and Dolores Fernandez; Franklin Mutual Insurance Company; Keystone Plastics; the Lipka family; Mercedes Benz of Newton; Gregory and Susan Murphy; Lorraine and Tim Parker; the Post Foundation; the Sandy Hill Foundation; Shop Rite Partners in Caring; Sussex Honda; and countless other generous individuals, corporations and businesses.

Those who are interested in accessing The Food Project: Nourishing Our Neighbors at Project Self-Sufficiency are invited to visit the campus, 127 Mill Street, Newton or call the agency, 973-940-3500 or 844-807-3500. Monetary and food donations will be gratefully accepted at the agency Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Monetary donations can also be made at www.projectselfsufficiency.org.

Project Self-Sufficiency is a community-based non-profit organization which specializes in services for low-income families in northwestern New Jersey. Programs offered at Project Self-Sufficiency include family literacy education, computer training and job placement services, assistance with parenting skills, childcare, counseling and advocacy, referrals, and help with emergency basic needs. To make a donation, or for more information about the programs and services offered by Project Self-Sufficiency, visit www.projectselfsufficiency.org or call 973-940-3500 or 844-807-3500.