HILLSDALE, N.J.—For people in need, there was a reason to be thankful last week, as the Helping Hand Food Pantry in Hillsdale distributed frozen turkeys and trimmings in a large volunteer effort.
On Saturday, Nov. 23, longtime volunteers and a youthful contingent came together to organize the collection at the Hillsdale Methodist Church, which provides space to the nonprofit food pantry.
The pantry serves people in Emerson, Hillsdale, Oradell, Montvale, Washington Township, Westwood and Woodcliff Lake.
“The food pantry turkey drive is really a way to kick off the holiday season and make sure people don’t go hungry this time of year,” said Mark Loblonco, the turkey drive coordinator.
Loblonco offered a special thank you to the 12 young people who volunteered, saying the media often casts young people in a negative light.
“It is a joy to see the youth come out and help during this time of year,” he said.
The Helping Hand Food Pantry evolved from a need recognized in 1992 by a Boy Scout and Hillsdale’s public health nurse. The scout took the initiative to organize a food drive for his Eagle Project.
Seeing the need for continued food distribution, the public health nurse and welfare director managed the operation for the following six years.
In 1998 the Hillsdale Clergy Association united the four Hillsdale churches to establish one ecumenically sponsored food pantry.
The pantry is a nonprofit charitable organization staffed by dedicated volunteers and relies on private donations, fundraisers, food drives and grants to serve those in need.
For more information, visit helpinghandfoodpantry.com.
Murray Bass contributed to this article.
