Small Business Bankers Lend A Hand At Red Bank's Lunch Break

RED BANK, NJ - Recognizing the serious challenge winter conditions pose for those without suitable food, clothing or shelter, Kearny Bank recently sent a team of small business bankers to lend a hand at the Lunch Break charitable organization that serves Monmouth County and beyond.

Nine Kearny Bank Small Business Bankers spent time at Lunch Break’s Red Bank facility, helping local clients shop in the pantry area, unloading trucks, stocking shelves, folding donated clothes and performing other tasks, as needed.

Lunch Break provides hot meals, warm clothing, companionship and life skills training to needy residents - so extra hands – attached to volunteers – are essential in ensuring that things run smoothly, according to a prepared release from the bank.

This ongoing volunteer effort followed up a donation of $10,000 made by the bank in early 2017.

“Lunch Break is a remarkable organization, in terms of what it does for so many residents of Red Bank and many other communities – so I’m delighted Kearny Bank provides financial support to help keep this operation going,” said Veronica Ross, first vice president, who led Kearny Bank’s team of Small Business Banker volunteers. “When you have the experience of providing in-person help, of working with your hands, that’s another level of support. It was truly a humbling experience and it reinforced for me what exceptional people my colleagues are.”

Founded in 1983, Lunch Break has a goal of breaking the cycle of poverty and guiding community members toward self-sufficiency and healthier, more productive lifestyles. In addition to its professional staff, the organization is aided by approximately 1,500 annual volunteers.

“One member of our volunteer team had completed his shift and saw there were still people in the dining hall waiting to get their meal,” Ross said. “So he just stayed and continued serving food. That’s not a big deal but it does illustrate how quickly people can become invested in what Lunch Break does.”

Information for groups or individuals interested in supporting Lunch Break by volunteering and/or making a financial contribution is available by calling 732-747-8577 or visiting www.lunchbreak.org.

Kearny Bank contributes volunteers and cash to help Lunch Break clients. Pictured: Veronica Ross,(left) Kearny Bank first vice president/Small Banker team leader and Allison Wilson, vice president/Small Business Banker . Photograph by Kearny Bank.