As the Pantry Manager at Blessed Sacrament Food Pantry in Newark, NJ, Helen Brooks has spent 27 years making sure her neighbors don’t go hungry. But for her, it’s about more than just food—it’s about dignity, community, and love.
“I always say, if we weren’t doing something right, people wouldn’t keep coming,” Helen shares. “One woman told me she had been in line since 5:30 AM this morning, and we don’t open until 11:00 AM. That’s a long time to wait for food, but when you’re in need, you do what you have to do.”
Every month, Helen and her team serve over 800 people—mostly families with children and younger adults. Unlike many traditional food pantries, Blessed Sacrament operates with a “client choice” model, allowing visitors to select the food they need instead of receiving pre-packaged bags. “It’s important that people have the power to choose,” Helen explains. “And to make it easier, we have signs in four different languages so everyone feels welcome.”
A Family of Volunteers
Behind the scenes, the pantry is powered by a close-knit team of volunteers, many of whom are retirees who dedicate their time and hearts to serving others. “We’re like family,” Helen says. “We look out for each other, and we make sure our clients feel respected and cared for.”
Younger volunteers also step up to help, including men who are currently unemployed and looking for purpose. “We welcome them with open arms,” Helen says. “One gentleman who had been incarcerated for 30 years told us he felt comfortable here because we treated him just like anyone else.”
Challenges and the Power of Community
Despite their dedication, challenges remain. “We’re seeing more and more people asking for diapers and wipes,” Helen says. “MEND has been incredible in helping with food, and now they’re helping with diapers. Last week, we had to turn people away because we ran out.”
Helen is grateful for MEND’s ongoing support. “If it wasn’t for MEND, we wouldn’t make it. They keep us going,” she says. “I remember when MEND was just a few of us, walking up and down Broad Street with canisters, collecting money to keep our pantries running. Now, thanks to Robin, we’ve grown so much.”
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Helen dreams of having a fully stocked, structured pantry where people can shop with dignity. “Right now, we set up tables and restock as we go, but I’d love to have proper shelves and aisles,” she says.
And while the work is hard, there is always room for warmth and kindness. “We make coffee, we bring Dunkin’ Donuts when we can, and Grandma Yvonne bakes cakes and muffins for the volunteers. Some of them come in hungry, and we make sure they’re taken care of, too.”
Helen’s message to those who support MEND and Blessed Sacrament is simple: “This is where we put our love and our hearts. We’re so grateful for the support that allows us to keep going and serve our community with care and dignity.”
For 27 years and counting, Helen Brooks has been the heart of Blessed Sacrament Food Pantry. And with her passion and determination, she shows no signs of stopping.