Grant Spotlight:

In a time when rising inflation has left many struggling to afford even basic necessities, the Episcopal Community Services of New Jersey (ECS-NJ) has stepped up to make a difference. Through its Spring 2022 grant, ECS-NJ has enabled the St. James Bradley Beach food pantry to significantly expand its offerings of fresh produce, providing much-needed support to the local community.

The impact of this grant has been profound. According to a representative from St. James, “Our Spring 2022 ECS-NJ grant allowed us to make a variety of fresh produce available to those who come to our food pantry. The ‘produce table’ is always jampacked with luscious fresh produce – always at least 4 products and often 10 or more products. As inflation has dramatically increased the price of food – and specifically the price of fresh produce – clients visiting our food pantry gain considerably from the availability of fresh fruits and vegetables on our tables, ready for them to choose what works for their families.”

The fresh produce initiative has not only provided nutritional benefits but has also fostered a sense of community among the pantry’s clients. The St. James representative added, “Sometimes the selection leads to a conversation and recipe-sharing. How many of us know what to do with kohlrabi, for example? When these conversations happen, we are slowly building relationships with our clients in a way that just isn’t possible when the choice is canned soup and ravioli. This program provides an opportunity for relationship.”

The ECS-NJ grant has enabled St. James to transform its food pantry into more than just a place where people receive food; it has become a place where they can connect, learn, and support one another. As inflation continues to challenge families, the availability of fresh produce at the St. James Bradley Beach food pantry stands as a beacon of hope, ensuring that those in need have access to nutritious options and the opportunity to engage in meaningful connections.

This initiative highlights the power of community-driven efforts and the crucial role that organizations like ECS-NJ play in addressing food insecurity. By investing in the health and well-being of the community, ECS-NJ and St. James are making a lasting impact, one fresh vegetable at a time.