During the Thanksgiving season of 2024, the small town of Ridgefield Park witnessed a remarkable display of community spirit. Volunteers came together to form an assembly line, working tirelessly to load trucks and vans with fresh produce. This heartwarming event was made possible through the joint efforts of the Bergen County Office of Food Security and the New Jersey Community FoodBank.

"Feeding the Community with Thanksgiving Generosity"

Volunteers at Work

1: On Monday, November 18, 2024, at Overpeck County Park, volunteers were seen in action. They moved with purpose, loading boxes of fresh produce onto waiting vehicles. From lettuce to potatoes, sweet potatoes, onions, and even a pineapple, a wide variety of produce was being distributed. Each volunteer played a crucial role in ensuring that the food reached those in need. 2: Lt. Carlos James from the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office was among those lending a helping hand. His presence added a sense of authority and organization to the operation. Alongside him, Deborah Mills, with her partner engagement and capacity at the New Jersey Community FoodBank, walked past the pallets of fresh produce, ensuring everything was in order.

The Impact of the Distribution

1: Through this generous initiative, an astonishing 90,000 pounds of produce were distributed. This not only provided a much-needed food supply for families in Ridgefield Park but also served as a reminder of the power of community collaboration. The fresh produce would find its way into the homes of those who were struggling during the holiday season. 2: Christina Ahn from Leonia was actively involved in passing boxes of food. Her efforts showed the unity and solidarity within the community. Steven Johnson from Philadelphia also made a significant contribution by dropping off a truckload of food. His act of kindness demonstrated that this food distribution was not limited to the local area but had a wider reach.

Local Involvement

1: Tim Thompson from the Omega Psi Phi fraternity was seen helping load a truck of fresh food. His fraternity's involvement added a touch of community spirit and brotherhood to the event. Commissioner Tracy Silna Zur also played a part, loading boxes of fresh produce into a vehicle with care. 2: Douglas Valladares and his son Daniel were busy loading up a truck for St. Andrews Church in Westwood. Their participation showed how the food distribution was touching different parts of the community and bringing people together.

Volunteers in Action

1: Natalie Geroski from Bergen County Human Services added a touch of fun with her turkey leg headband. Despite the serious nature of the task, her enthusiasm was contagious. Volunteers continued to form that assembly line, loading boxes of fresh produce with unwavering dedication. 2: A forklift driver was also hard at work, loading a pallet of fresh produce onto a truck. This behind-the-scenes effort was essential in ensuring the smooth flow of the distribution. Every aspect of the operation was coordinated to make the most of the 90,000 pounds of produce being distributed.