Scotch Plains Neighbors Come Together To Feed Hungry

SCOTCH PLAINS, NJ — A Scotch Plains housing community is coming together on Saturday to donate bags of food to help those in need amid the coronavirus.

Michael Weinstock, who lives in the Stirling Chase development in the township, got the idea for the food drive after he was talking with the housing community's association president Emil Manfredonia. He became aware of the rise in families asking for food assistance over the past year.

Weinstock wanted to do something to help and started organizing a food drive for the food bank at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Church on Martine Avenue, which is right across from their development.

Together Weinstock and his wife rallied the troops. They got Trader Joe’s reusable bags, stapled a list of desired items needed by the food bank onto each bag, and gave them out to all 90 homes in the community.

Weinstock is planning on delivering all of the food donations on Saturday at 9:30 a.m. Ahead of the delivery, Weinstock said he has already seen an outpouring of support from residents.

"It seems to have really touched a nerve," said Weinstock. "So many people reached out to extended family and friends to also make donations."

One neighbor also contacted Manfredonia and said she is donating 20 to 30 bags.

"It has really taken on a life on its own," said Weinstock. "It's magnificent. Given all the nonsense and political upheaval. This shows people in the community are in need and it takes so little to see how generous people can be."

Weinstock said anyone can donate to the food bank, which has drop-off bins behind the church. Non-perishable items are needed such as condiments (mayo, ketchup, mustard, small bags of rice, etc.).

"If everyone just does a little bit we can really ease the food issues," said Weinstock.

This story is part of Patch's Headlining Hope series, which profiles local nonprofits and charitable organizations in need of volunteers and resources. If you know about a local organization that should be profiled, contact alexis.tarrazi@patch.com.