Largest single Hunger Action Month award in New Jersey

Neptune, NJ — One in eight people face food insecurity in New Jersey as families across the state contend with rising grocery costs. Against this backdrop, Fulfill, a leader in alleviating hunger and food insecurity across Monmouth and Ocean counties, today announced a $250,000 grant from the FirstEnergy Foundation to help combat hunger and connect families with critical resources.

“Across Monmouth and Ocean Counties, more than 150,000 of our neighbors rely on Fulfill for food each month. This generous investment from FirstEnergy Foundation will provide access to nutritious food and critical resources at a time when so many people need it. We’re extremely grateful to the FirstEnergy Foundation for helping strengthen our efforts to address food insecurity in such a significant way,” said Triada Stampas, President & CEO, Fulfill.

This grant is part of the FirstEnergy Foundation's largest investment in hunger relief to date, awarding $1.3 million to 25 New Jersey hunger-relief organizations. These donations are expected to provide nearly 4 million meals during Hunger Action Month, a national, September-long observance that raises awareness of food insecurity and encourages volunteerism, advocacy and giving. Jersey Central Power & Light (JCP&L), a subsidiary of FirstEnergy Corp., serves 1.2 million customers in 13 counties, including Monmouth and Ocean.

"At JCP&L, we believe strong communities are built through strong partnerships. For more than 40 years, Fulfill has been a trusted resource for families across Monmouth and Ocean counties, helping meet immediate needs while connecting people with resources that support long-term stability. The FirstEnergy Foundation is proud to support an organization that continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of our neighbors every day," said Doug Mokoid, FirstEnergy New Jersey state president.

Rising Need Across Monmouth and Ocean Counties

According to Feeding America, more than 130,000 people experienced food insecurity in Monmouth and Ocean counties in 2024. Out of that number, nearly 40,000 were children. The need comes as costs continue to climb, with food prices in Ocean and Monmouth counties rising 3.3% over the past year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Along with cuts to SNAP benefits, affordability concerns continue to put pressure on already-stretched family budgets.

“Ending hunger requires the commitment of an entire community. By supporting Fulfill’s mission, Jersey Central Power & Light and the FirstEnergy Foundation are showing that strong corporate citizenship means being a true partner—investing in the health, dignity and long-term well-being of the communities they serve,” stated Susan Doctorian Kyrillos, Chair of Fulfill’s Board of Trustees.

How the Funding Will Be Used

The grant will support Fulfill's hunger-relief programs, including its Pop-The-Trunk mobile distributions, and its work connecting families with resources that promote long-term stability and self-sufficiency across Monmouth and Ocean counties. As families navigate new challenges, Fulfill remains dedicated to serving its communities, whether it be through food donations or by providing resources to enroll in welfare programs.

Media Resources

Photos and video from today's presentation are available here courtesy of Fulfill.

About Fulfill
Fulfill has been dedicated to addressing hunger in Monmouth and Ocean counties since 1984. The organization provides food and resources through a network of nearly 300 partner agencies, including food pantries, soup kitchens and shelters, serving more than 150,000 neighbors each month. In addition to food distribution, Fulfill offers Resource Connections, SNAP enrollment assistance, culinary workforce training, and other programs that help individuals and families build long-term self-sufficiency. For more information visit fulfillnj.org/.

About the FirstEnergy Foundation

The FirstEnergy Foundation supports 501(c)(3) organizations across FirstEnergy’s operational area, helping them build capacity, strengthen outcomes and deliver lasting impact. Giving priorities include housing stability, hunger relief, workforce development and STEM initiatives that reflect community needs and the company’s strategic focus. Combined with the Hunger Action Month grants, the Foundation has distributed nearly $6.5 million in community support across FirstEnergy’s operational area to date in 2026.