The USDA recently cut over $1 billion in funding used to purchase fresh food from local farmers. This directly impacts MEND’s home delivery program, which provides farm-fresh food to 220 families, twice a month.

I recently spoke with NJ Spotlight News about the impact of these cuts. Watch the interview here (and fast forward to 2:35 if you want to get right to it!):

Your support is essential to ensure we can continue this vital program. We’ll reach out with more details on ways you can help soon (hint: every donation makes a difference!)

In the meantime, read on to learn more about how you are impacting local efforts to increase fresh food access and build community… no matter what happens in DC!

Regards,
Robin Peacock
Executive Director

Your support of MEND is an investment in community, beyond food!

Jespy House, a non-profit that supports adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, partners with MEND through its Work Readiness and Employment Engagement (WREE) program.

Jessica M., a graduate of WREE and long-time MEND volunteer (who will celebrate 4 years in June!), recently helped Jespy House lead a food drive to benefit MEND.

MEND launched the Food & Health Equity Coalition (FHEC) in 2024. With 85+ cross sector organizations represented, members have focused on sharing, updating and centralizing food access resources.

Year 2 kicked off earlier this month, with members prioritizing key areas for collective impact, in addition to continued resource sharing efforts.

MEND is collaborating with the Greater Newark Healthcare Coalition (GNHCC), thanks to funding from the NJ Department of Health. This partnership connects clinical and community resources to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease among Newark residents.

The Leaguers, a Head Start program located in Newark, provides essential services to families facing challenges. Site supervisor, Ms. Aglaia Fouche explains: “We help families access education, nutrition, health services, housing, job training, and more.” The program serves diverse communities, including African American, Caribbean, Hispanic, and African populations.

Ms. Samuels, a teacher at The Leaguers, stresses the critical role nutrition plays in children’s development. “[A]ccess to fresh produce is often limited… which affects not only children’s health but also their behavior and learning abilities,” she explains. “[T]hey tend to feel sluggish or inattentive… By providing healthy meals, we help them perform better, be more engaged, and reach their full potential.”

Mark your calendars for Friday, October 3rd, 2025! Gather your friends, pick out your most festive green attire, and get ready for an unforgettable evening of joy and connection at 6:30 PM at the Maplewood Country Club!

Save the date for the 8th annual 10 Days of 10Ks: July 11-20, 2025! This event brings people together, thought fitness, to raise funds and awareness for MEND’s mission.

Spanish-speaking volunteers are needed to assist at food pantries and mobile markets in Essex County. Help non-English speaking neighbors access food!

What’s a soybean’s favorite hobby?

April is National Pecan Month!

Did you know…