Planting seeds to alleviate hunger

The FoodBank of Monmouth and Ocean Counties recognized National Hunger Awareness Day June 5 by raising awareness of hunger issues existing in our communities. Recently, the FoodBank received funds from Gov. Jon Corzine's State Food Purchase Program, which provides New Jersey foodbanks with funds to purchase food from state vendors, as well as providing funds to expand and improve the capabilities of numerous local charities.

Twenty charities in this area have met the specific criteria required, which will enable them to receive a refrigerator or freezer. For the first time, these charities will be able to accept fresh produce and dairy products. Among these 20 art St. Anthony's Church in Red Bank, St. Brigid's in Long Branch and Calico Cat Pantry in Middletown.

Now that many more charities can accept perishables, the FoodBank needs more donations of fresh produce.

We would like to ask the community to please Plant a Row for the hungry in their home gardens this season and donate the harvest to either the FoodBank or a neighborhood charity serving families in need.

In addition, for those who may not have a garden but are interested in this project, the FoodBank has a volunteer-run community garden which produces an average of 2,500 pounds of produce a year. The FoodBank garden program is looking for volunteers at this time. Help us to plant seeds to alleviate hunger.

Join with the FoodBank to fight hunger this summer and supply fresh produce to many who struggle from the effects of hunger on a daily basis.

For more information go to www.foodbankmoc.org or call (732) 918-2600.

Susan M. Kelly

executive director

The FoodBank of Monmouth and Ocean Counties