The spirit of collective action was on full display at the recent Food and Health Equity Coalition (FHEC) meeting, where community leaders gathered to strategize for lasting change in Essex County. We were especially inspired by remarks from Mark Dinglasan of the NJ Office of the Food Security Advocate (pictured above), who reminded the attendees just how critical this work is to advancing food justice across the state.

One urgent issue discussed: proposed cuts to SNAP, which would strip vital food assistance from families already struggling to access fresh, healthy food.

Below are a few resources to help you learn more about what’s at stake — and how you can be part of the movement for equitable food access:

Thank you for paying attention to this important issue. Please keep showing up for your community, and for the right of every neighbor to access nourishing food!

Regards,

Robin Peacock

Executive Director

MEND recently welcomed a new pantry partner: Habitat for Humanity of Greater Newark, bringing the food pantry network to 22 partners.

Known for building affordable homes, Habitat also operates a vibrant Community Resource Hub on South Orange Avenue in Newark, offering services like ID restoration, wellness events, youth programming, and now —with MEND’s support — a growing food pantry focused on fresh, healthy food.

“MEND knows that solving hunger takes more than food,” said Keily Hayes, Director of Community Impact. “Habitat’s holistic approach made them a natural fit. Faith and her team have created a welcoming hub that supports neighbors with housing, benefits enrollment, tech access, and joyful community events. This is how we do more together.”

The partnership launched in April with a shared goal to expand nutritious food access in high-need areas. Faith Layer, Habitat’s Neighborhood Revitalization Coordinator, shared, “I see more happy faces. People tell me, ‘I cooked this today’ or ‘I made this soup.’ The fresh produce and meat from MEND really make a difference.”

Last month, the Community FoodBank of New Jersey generously donated a new walk-in freezer to MEND.

This created an opportunity for MEND to pay it forward by donating seven chest freezers and four A/C units to several pantry partners.

Member pantries can now safely store and distribute more fresh, frozen, and nutritious food to neighbors.

Mark your calendars for the 8th Annual 10 Days of 10Ks, which takes place from July 11–20, 2025. You can choose one day, all 10, or something in between!

Lace up, and help raise funds to bring more fresh, healthy food to your neighbors!

Mark your calendars for Friday, October 3rd, 2025!

Bring your friends, wear your most vibrant green, and join a joyful evening of community, celebration, and impact at 6:30 PM at the Maplewood Country Club!

This special night helps power MEND’s year-round work — and we can’t do it without your support!

MEND is hiring a Driver & Warehouse Assistant to play a key role in daily operations and food deliveries.

Please apply by June 23 for priority consideration by sending your cover letter and résumé to HR@mendnj.org.

How do you make gold soup?

June is National Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Month!

Did you know…