NJ American Water Donates $5K, 500 Pounds Of Food To Food Banks

New Jersey American Water is doing its part to fight food insecurity, the water company said Tuesday morning.

The water company's employees raised over $5,000 and donated over 500 pounds of food to seven different food banks across its service territory through a statewide physical and virtual food drive late last month, according to New Jersey American Water.

The American Water Charitable Foundation also provided an additional donation of approximately $1,700 through its employee-focused matching gift program, for a total of $6,700, which will provide about 20,100 meals for individuals in need.

“COVID-19 has placed such a strain on our local food banks, with food shortages, increased prices, and increased demands due to job loss and school closures,” New Jersey American Water President and Chief Environmental Officer Cheryl Norton said. “I am so proud of our employees and their eagerness to give during these difficult times, and I am especially proud to work for a company that recognizes the generosity of its employees through matched donations.”

The statewide food drive was part of a joint initiative in conjunction with Atlantic City Electric, New Jersey Natural Gas Company, Jersey Central Power & Light, and South Jersey Industries dubbed “Utilities United in Kindness.” Together, the five utility companies donated over 1,200 pounds of food and nearly $15,000 to 11 New Jersey food banks.

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, estimates that in 2020, more than 54 million Americans will 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.