Madison Area YMCA Distributes More Than 1,300 Food Boxes

Since May, the Madison Area YMCA has been helping to combat food insecurity in our community. In partnership with the Community FoodBank of New Jersey and Seashore Fruit and Produce Co., Inc. through the New Jersey YMCA State Alliance, the Y has been able to distribute 1,378 boxes of fresh produce and shelf-stable food to families and seniors in our community.

According to the Community FoodBank of New Jersey, a recent Monmouth University poll showed that the coronavirus outbreak has had a major impact on the lives of 7 in 10 New Jersians. “The Y is here to support the urgent needs in our community that have been magnified by the pandemic. Food insecurity is an immediate danger to the health of individuals and families and we all must do our part to help,” said Associate Development Director Melissa DeSalvo.

In an ongoing effort to support our community, pallets of food boxes are delivered to the Y where teams of YMCA staff are on hand to accept and organize the food. Families arrive at the Y during scheduled times to pick up their food boxes. Y staff also make contact-free home deliveries to those unable to come to the Y.

“Many Y families and community members rely on these food boxes,” said Madison Y President & CEO Diane Mann. “We are working statewide through the New Jersey YMCA State Alliance to continue hosting local food distribution days throughout the fall and winter to help assure that ongoing nutrition needs are met.”

For more information about food distribution and ways to support our community, contact Melissa DeSalvo at mdesalvo@madisonymca.org.

As a mission-driven charitable organization and community wellness center, the Madison Area YMCA is dedicated to nurturing the potential of our youth, providing a safe space for teens, improving the community’s health and well-being, and providing support to our neighbors.