Cupboard hit by hard times

Food drive nets less than half the usual amount of donations.

By: Al Wicklund
MONROE — Food collections by Monroe-Jamesburg letter carriers were way down Saturday.
   The drive conducted on behalf of the Food Cupboard at the United Presbyterian Church of Jamesburg was down by more than 50 percent, said Susan Schneider-Baker, Food Cupboard coordinator.
   She said she believes lack of notification slowed and weakened the Food Pantry’s spring drive.
   "Last year, we received about 800 bags of food. On Saturday, we had fewer than half that number. We received 356 bags," she said.
   She said that she and some 30 volunteers were biting their nails waiting for food to pack.
   "Normally, we have donated food here at noon. This year, the first Postal Service truck didn’t arrive until 2:45 p.m. It had us worried," she said.
   Ms. Schneider-Baker said notification cards weren’t distributed the week before the collection day and that could have been damaging to the drive.
   "I believe the lack of notification really hurt us," she said.
   Ms. Schneider-Baker said she felt sorry for the carriers who once again willingly gave of their time and work.
   "Many of them expressed their disappointment. The food drive is one of those times they enjoy. A time when they can do something for the community.
   "As the carriers brought in food, they apologized for the reduced response and hoped they would be able to make up for it next year," she said.
   She said she didn’t want to be taken as unappreciative.
   "Through the years, the postal workers have been a source of great support for us and I thank them for their help this year as well as for their past efforts," Ms. Schneider-Baker said.
   The Deacon’s Food Cupboard at 177 Gatzmer Ave. in Jamesburg distributed 150 bags of food to families and individuals in need during the first months of this year. Ms. Schneider-Baker said food is provided to persons of all faiths and the number of those served is growing.
   "In January, we distributed 32 bags of food. Last month, the number was up to 43," she said.
   She said the Food Cupboard distributes food to families and individuals who need help year-round.
   She said volunteers will be at the Presbyterian Church today (Friday) putting together food packages and the food will be distributed tomorrow.
   Ms. Schneider-Baker said anyone wishing to donate food should call the church, (732) 521-1711, to find out what is needed most and to learn the best times to drop off donations.