Project Self-Sufficiency unveiled its new Nourish to Flourish food pantry in Newton on September 25. This pantry is part of the Growing Healthy Pantries initiative from the Community FoodBank of New Jersey. The goal? To offer healthy food options and a respectful shopping experience.
This new setup allows visitors to choose their food, much like they would in a grocery store. Deborah Berry-Toon, the executive director of Project Self-Sufficiency, shared that this design harks back to how pantries operated before the pandemic, when clients had the chance to select their own items. During COVID-19, many people received pre-packed bags instead.
The pantry has been a lifeline for the community. Last year alone, it served over 6,000 families, translating to more than 329,000 meals. Newton’s Mayor, Helen Le Frois, highlighted that food insecurity affects around 6.1% of residents in Sussex County. “These numbers are not just statistics,” she emphasized. “They represent real families, seniors, and children struggling to put food on the table.”
Located in a revamped farmhouse on the Project Self-Sufficiency campus, the pantry offers a mix of refrigerated, frozen, and canned goods, as well as toiletries and laundry items. A notable feature is the emphasis on fresh produce, much of which comes from local farms.
Collaboration with farmers is vital. Jessica Clarke and Craig Hart from Hudson Farm Club in Andover spoke about the importance of sharing their harvest. “It’s about maintaining a connection,” Clarke said. “When we can share our produce, it feels meaningful.”
Speakers at the event included Sussex County Commissioner Alan Henderson and members from various community organizations. Christine Parauda of the Foodshed Alliance emphasized, “Food is medicine, food is nutrition, food is community, and food is an expression of love.” Access to nutritious food is key to fostering community well-being.
This pantry represents more than just food; it’s about building connections and supporting those in need. It aims to nourish not just bodies, but also spirits. Current trends show a growing focus on food accessibility and community support as essential components of public health.
For more detailed information, you can visit the Community FoodBank of New Jersey.
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