At Norwescap, we believe that food security should never be a choice between putting food on the table or paying rent. On September 27th, we celebrated a momentous occasion with the unveiling of our newly renovated Food Bank Annex at 201 Broad Street, Phillipsburg. This renovation is not just about bricks and mortar; it represents a 40% increase in our ability to combat food insecurity in our community. That will translate to the equivalent of more than 2.2 million meals provided throughout our communities next year! And, we aren’t just increasing the quantity of food we can store and distribute; we have nearly doubled our refrigerator and freezer capacity, allowing us to provide more high-quality, nutrition-rich proteins, dairy products, and produce to support our neighbors’ health and well-being.
A Cornerstone of Hope
The Norwescap Food Bank is more than just a place to collect, store, and distribute food; it represents a lifeline for many families and individuals facing significant challenges, right here in the communities we serve. The Norwescap Food Bank is just one facet of our extensive range of diverse yet comprehensive services, all aimed at providing vital resources and long-term support to those in need.
The transformation of our Food Bank Annex was made possible through a generous grant from the New Jersey Department of Agriculture. This grant, part of an unprecedented investment made by the State Legislature in food security, allowed us to undertake these significant renovations debt-free – ensuring that every dollar donated by our generous supporters goes directly to putting food on the tables of those who need it most.
Honoring Those Who Stand with Us
At our Ribbon Cutting ceremony, we were honored by the attendance of distinguished guests who stand united in the fight against food insecurity. Those present included Senator Doug Steinhardt, Assemblyman John DiMaio, County Commissioner Director Lori Ciesla, County Commissioner James Kern, County Prosecutor James Pfeiffer, Mayor Todd Tersigni, Phillipsburg Council members, Norwescap’s Board of Directors, and our dedicated Food Bank staff, as well as many additional devoted Norwescap staff.
The event was marked by heartfelt remarks from key figures who played pivotal roles in our journey to enhance food security:
The event was marked by heartfelt remarks from key figures who played pivotal roles in our journey to enhance food security:
Mark Valli, CEO of Norwescap, welcomed everyone with warmth and discussed the growing demand for food assistance.
Phillipsburg Mayor Todd Tersigni expressed unwavering support for Norwescap and its mission.
Jane Asselta, New Jersey State Director for Rural Development, USDA, highlighted the infrastructure investments that made this renovation possible.
Lisa Weber, Senior Director of Food Security & Health Equity at Norwescap, emphasized the crucial need for food security in New Jersey and how this renovation bolsters our ability to provide nutritious food to those in need.
Community Partners Share Their Stories
Some of the most moving words of the day were provided by Jeannine Gorman, Executive Director of Flemington Food Pantry, and Scott Savokinas, Director of The Lord’s Pantry in Hackettstown, as they shared their direct experiences running neighborhood food pantries and the impact of Norwescap in providing healthier choices to those they serve. It gave the audience a closer connection to the people we are working so hard for, and the purpose at the core of that work.
>>>Be sure to view our video on YouTube for a summary of this event:
Field Representative Kristen Doran from US Congressman Tom Kean’s office presented a Certificate of Commemoration on behalf of the office, and Mark Valli closed the ceremony with excerpts from a letter from Governor Phil Murphy.
A Collective Effort for Greater Impact
While Craig J. Coughlin, Speaker of the Assembly, was unable to attend, his support for addressing hunger and nutrition in New Jersey is well-recognized.
The culmination of the ceremony was the cutting of the bright blue ribbon that adorned the entrance to the Annex. Dignitaries lined up, and as Mark Valli cut the ribbon, there was an outpouring of cheers and applause, symbolizing a significant step towards boosting food security in our region.
Critical Improvements for a Brighter Future
Among the critical improvements made to the Food Bank Annex, expanded storage capacity tops the list. With more storage options, we can now offer those in need a wider variety of healthier foods, with greater nutritional value. Examples of farm fresh produce; succulent peaches and crisp apples, that stood-in as decorations for the event are also the real-life examples of balanced diets and choice-method of distribution that Norwescap and our partners are seeking, giving not-only better health outcomes but more dignity to those needing resources from a food pantry.
Responding to Growing Needs
This renovation is our response to the surging issue of food insecurity in New Jersey. As Lisa Weber mentioned, “370,000 residents of Hunterdon, Sussex, and Warren counties live in food insecure households, with the need up 21% this year compared to 2022.”
Top Priorities for Norwescap Food Bank
Lisa Weber also outlined the top four priorities for the Norwescap Food Bank:
- Increase the Volume: Provide more food and essential items like diapers and feminine products to meet the high level of need.
- Elevate Mix and Nutritional Quality: Focus on providing healthier options and nutritionally balanced food.
- Integrate Food, Nutrition, and Health Strategies: Leverage the full spectrum of Norwescap programs to promote food security and health equity.
- Increase Partnership, Collaboration, and Innovation: Collaborate with partners to address food insecurity comprehensively.
Expanding Our Capacity for Greater Impact
This renovation brings dramatic changes, including:
- A 50% increase in capacity for storing shelf-stable food.
- Doubling of freezer and cold storage capacity.
- A functional loading dock for cost-effective, efficient, and sustainable food delivery.
- Purchase of a second truck to increase delivery capacity and service.
- Our goal is to increase meal distribution by 40-45%, from 1.6 million to 2.2 million meals.
A Bright Future Ahead
Norwescap’s Ribbon Cutting Ceremony represents a significant step towards a brighter future where food security is within everyone’s reach. We are committed to making a lasting impact on our community and providing essential assistance to those in need.
Join Us in the Fight Against Hunger
As we move forward, we want to express our gratitude to all our partners, donors, and supporters who have stood with us in this journey. Together, we can make a difference and ensure that no one in our community goes to bed hungry.
by Dawn Hartfelder – updated 10/12/2023
- To learn more about Norwescap Food Bank, please visit this page: Food Bank (norwescap.org)
- To support Norwescap’s work with a monetary donation, please visit this link: Donate (norwescap.org)
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