Branchburg Bagel Shop Sets Up Giving Garden To Help Those In Need

BRANCHBURG, NJ — Many are struggling to make ends meet due to the coronavirus pandemic. To help those going hungry, the Bagel Garden in Branchburg has set up a "Giving Garden" where customers are donating hundreds of dollars for residents in need.

Anne Docherty, co-owner of the bagel shop at 1021 Route 202, just over the border of Bridgewater, said she started the "Giving Garden" in March 2020 at the beginning of the pandemic.

Docherty said she noticed a couple of guys who were homeless coming in every day.

Be the first to know what's happening in your town and area. Sign up to get Patch emails and don't miss a minute of local and state news: https://patch.com/subscribe

Docherty decided to set up a board where customers can come in and donate any amount they choose for those in need to redeem for breakfast or lunch at the shop.

"We've had more givers than takers," said Docherty.

The board is overflowing with tickets for amounts of $5, $10, or $20 for residents to redeem and is still going strong in 2021.

"We do get some regulars that come in and take the tickets," said Docherty.

On the tickets, some customers will write heartfelt messages to lift the spirits of those in need including "Enjoy because life is to be enjoyed!"

Docherty was so pleased with the response from the community she also began donating leftover bagels to the Flemington Food Pantry and Feeding Hands Pantry in Somerville.

"It feels good," said Docherty. "Giving is always better than receiving."

For more information on the Bagel Garden visit facebook.com/bagelgarden or call 908-526-6444.

Patch has partnered with Feeding America to help raise awareness on behalf of the millions of Americans facing hunger. Feeding America, which supports 200 food banks across the country, estimated that in 2020, more than 50 million Americans would not have enough nutritious food to eat due to the effects of the coronavirus pandemic. This is a Patch social good project; Feeding America receives 100 percent of donations. Find out how you can donate in your community or find a food pantry near you.

Have a news tip? Email alexis.tarrazi@patch.com.

Get Patch breaking news alerts sent right to your phone with our new app. Download here. Don't miss local and statewide announcements. Sign up for Patch alerts and daily newsletters.