(Courtesy of JFCS) In a world filled with hunger, pain and tragedy, it is a great relief when people of different backgrounds and different faiths work together in unity for the common cause of aiding our neighbors. In a world shrouded in darkness, the Jewish Family & Children’s Services of Northern New Jersey (JFCS) and Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Newark (CCAN) have made the noble decision to be lamps, candles and lights in the midst of the darkness, shining upon the needy the light of love, and upon the unfortunate the rays of opportunity.
In the summer of 2018, Michael Dworkis of JFCS was contacted by Maria Salerno of CCAN who had discovered that both organizations shared a common goal: serving the vulnerable of Northern New Jersey by feeding the hungry families of the region, through food pantries in Teaneck and Fair Lawn. Having found this resemblance, and having considered the teachings of the Bible, Maria Salerno chose to share with JFCS the ample resources of CCAN for more effective distribution to the community. The shared resources include a monthly donation of approximately 500 pounds of fresh produce and meat from Trader Joe’s, and a frequent donation from Goya Foods, enabling both organizations to more effectively reach their common goal.
“When neighbors can feel distant, and people feel separated into “them” and “us,” it is reassuring to partner with another organization that shares our values of making the world a better place,” said Maria Salerno.
“It doesn’t matter what religion, you are,” Michael Dworkis explained. “Hungry people represent all religions and races, and we just want to help our New Jersey community.”
In cooperating to feed the poor, these two organizations demonstrate not only love and charity to those who are in need, but they embody the true American spirit and serve as examples for all. By sharing their resources, the two organizations can more effectively feed the poor of Northern New Jersey who are mothers and fathers, guardians and heads of households who cannot otherwise afford to bring food to the family table and fill their refrigerators, because they are often burdened with unemployment and other financial obligations.
The two nonprofit organizations also recognize that food insecurity is often a symptom, not a cause. With this in mind, the agencies provide many wrap-around services including mental health services, career counseling, financial coaching and senior care management to help clients get the additional support that they need.
In the campaign of 1960, Senator John F. Kennedy outlined that we, as Americans, have an obligation toward our fellow-Americans who live in misfortune, to help them live sustainable lives and realize that freedom our forefathers fought for. Today, JFCS and CCAN are answering Kennedy’s call and are accomplishing this American mission that we are called to fulfill.
For more information about JFCS or to make a donation, please visit www.jfcsnnj.org
For more information about CCAN or to make a donation, please visit www.ccannj.org
