Meeting Essential Needs with Dignity
MEND is a hunger relief network in Essex County, NJ, made up of over 40 food pantry and community partners. We work to advance health equity and influence systems-level change through collaborative, community-driven, innovative programming.
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MEND Impact
23
Number of member food pantries in MEND’s network
391,000+
Number of people served through MEND programs in 2022.
36%
Percentage of people served who are children
$4.07
Average meal cost in Essex County, NJ (versus SNAP benefit of $3.02 per meal)
12%
Rate of Food Insecurity in Essex County (compared to state average of 7%).
91%
Percentage of fresh food purchased by MEND.