Somerset County 4-H SACH Club Builds Free Food Pantry in Bound Brook, NJ
Somerset County 4-H SACH Club Builds Free Food Pantry in Bound Brook, NJ
Written by Calvin Embleton (Marketing and Communications)
SACH members with Bound Brook mayor Robert Fazen.
Summary:
With food insecurity rising among communities due to COVID-19, the Somerset County 4-H & Middle Earth Student Ambassadors for Community Health (SACH) worked together to develop and build a “Little Free Pantry” at Mariposa Park located in Bound Brook, New Jersey. Supported by mayor Robert Fazen and the Bound Brook Town Council, SACH partnered with local organizations and volunteer groups to coordinate a schedule for keeping the pantry fully stocked year-round for residents in need.
teamwork • volunteering • handiwork • community building • problem solving
THE CHALLENGE
As more families turn to food banks and donations during COVID-19 for meals and nutrition, food insecurity is a growing issue that needs addressing. Due to their strong connection to the Bound Brook community and local government, the Student Ambassadors stepped forward to provide a solution that would both aid the neighborhood they love, as well as provide a learning experience for its members. “It was really nice to have a physical project to work on, especially one that helps the community. I encourage everyone to go check it out, and while you’re there, leave a donation,” said SACH member Dale Brochinsky.
SACH member Dale Brochinsky helping build the ‘Little Free Pantry.’
THE SOLUTION
Inspired by their previous community health projects in Bound Brook, SACH developed the plans for a “Little Free Pantry” at Mariposa Park, a local green space they recently revitalized. Working together, members collaborated on an online presentation to the Bound Brook Town Council which ultimately approved the project for construction.
The completed ‘Little Free Pantry’ in Mariposa Park.
The Student Ambassadors began planning their “Little Free Pantry” virtually in July and worked individually or within family groups for socially distanced building, ultimately completing the project and installing the pantry in September. Once ready for the public, SACH stocked the pantry full of supplies and were happy to notice it being used immediately. With a “take and leave what you can” approach, community members have already joined the efforts to help their neighbors by donating additional goods.
To make sure the pantry is fully stocked year-round with healthy and nutritious non-perishable food items, SACH fostered relationships with local organizations and volunteer groups to ensure its continued use and success.
As a sign of appreciation, Bound Brook mayor Robert Fazen met with members of SACH to congratulate their efforts as well as show his gratitude for the project and its goal of making the community healthier and happier. “The members loved having the support of mayor Fazen. It showed that the work they do is truly noticed and appreciated among Bound Brook citizens and representatives,” said Somerset County 4-H SACH program coordinator Kristine Manganelli.
If you are an individual or organization that is interested in making donations or learning more about the “Little Free Pantry”, please email 4hmiddleearthsach@gmail.com.