MORRIS PLAINS —On Saturday, September 9, the Morris Plains Stop & Shop at 245 Littleton Road is set to undergo a magical transformation. Whispers in the community speak of a special day when brightly colored banners with the words “Feeding Our Families” will flutter proudly, beckoning residents from all corners of the Tri-State Area.
On this day, almost 200 Stop & Shop outlets will stand united with a singular, heartfelt mission: to eradicate local hunger. This monumental endeavor isn’t just the dream of the renowned grocery chain. Powerful allies have joined the cause, including the Community FoodBank of New Jersey (CFBNJ), Fulfill, NBC4 New York, and Telemundo 47.
Upon arriving at Morris Plains or any participating location, eager volunteers will hand over lists to every visitor. These lists, crafted with care, will guide generous hearts, detailing the much-needed items: from baby diapers and canned goods to grains like quinoa and rice, as well as a selection of essential household and hygiene products. However, donors are advised to remember certain guidelines, especially regarding milk and perishables.
Young Jenny, an enthusiastic volunteer-to-be, shares her plans for the day. “I’m preparing to guide donors, ensuring they know what’s most needed. Like milk? Yes, but only if it’s shelf-stable or dried. No glass or perishable items.”
In the lead-up, Elizabeth McCarthy, the visionary president and CEO of the Community FoodBank of New Jersey, spends her evenings pondering the event’s potential impact. She often finds herself thinking of the staggering 530,000 people, including 130,000 children in CFBNJ’s service area, who wrestle with the shadow of food insecurity. “This drive,” she says with hope in her eyes, “is for our neighbors, our friends.”
While the Morris Plains Stop & Shop prepares to play its part, whispers confirm that the initiative’s ripple effect will spread far and wide. Multiple food banks, from the Food Bank for New York City to Long Island Cares, are expected to benefit from the day’s bountiful collections.
As the day draws nearer, the Tri-State community readies itself for a day of unparalleled unity and generosity. And while it has yet to unfold, the tale of this upcoming day promises to be an enduring testament to the indomitable spirit of community collaboration.
