A Busy Fall for Bloomfield's United Way

UPDATE: The open house at the UWB has been postponed because of construction on Broad Street. Check back for when it's rescheduled. 

The Bloomfield United Way’s food pantry was getting a little low over the summer. Nothing too urgent; Director Hilary Michel said they were able to help everyone they needed to help.

Their food bank was open on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., with people needing assistance able to take home non-perishable food.

Nonetheless, they are looking to stock up this fall, in more ways than one. And with their slate of fall events, fundraisers and volunteer opportunities, the shelves are likely to soon be overflowing.

Residents are invited to learn more about the local non profit organization this Thursday when the United Way holds an open house. Visitors are asked to donate a non-perishable food item and are invited to learn about programs and opportunities to volunteer and make further donations.

“We're going to ask everyone who attends to bring a non-perishable food (can or box item),” Michel said.  “Come and see our ‘home,’ see what we do, ask questions, sign up to volunteer and learn what you need to know about the United Way of Bloomfield.”

“We’re always looking for volunteers to assist in different programs,” Michel said. 

Michel said the United Way always accepts gift cards to stores like Target, Shoprite and Quick check as well as gas cards and food donations. In terms of food, Michel said they accept anything in a box or a can, particularly powdered milk and cereal. She said that donations to the Bloomfield United Way have local impact.

“Donations go to people in Bloomfield,” Michel said.

Financial donations can be made discreetly at their Broad Street office. And they are working on re-launching their website and enabling it to accept credit card donations.

In addition to the Pantry, the United Way offers income support and job assistance.

Throughout the fall, the United Way has been selling raffle tickets for the group's annual 50/50 at $100 a shot. The drawing will be held halftime at the Bloomfield High School homecoming game on Saturday, Oct. 26. 

For more information, contact info@unitedwaybloomfield.org, call 973-748-1732 or stop by 385 Broad St.