By John Griffin, Elizabeth Education Association President
Answering to the immense demand for food as families struggle because of COVID-19, the Elizabeth Education Association (EEA) has partnered with several local restaurants and businesses to help community organizations provide more than 750 “grab and go” meals and fill food pantries throughout the city of Elizabeth.
The EEA knew families were struggling to find food and resources during these difficult times. Utilizing NJEA PRIDE funding, the EEA organized the first “grab and go” at the Glorious Hope Missionary Baptist Church, in the city’s Elizabethport section.
Nearly two hundred complete meals, along with personal essentials, and pantry items donated by the church were distributed to area residents by church volunteers. The EEA partnered with the church to provide a second “grab and go” two weeks later.
This was followed by a Midtown “Grab and Go” at Christ Fellowship Church, which was also met by crowds. Two hundred complete meals and sides were distributed to members of the community.
Additionally, the EEA partnered with New Life Direction, a community-based, non-profit organization serving at-risk youth in the city’s Bayway section. Volunteers from New Life Direction delivered 150 complete meals to the families of youths they mentor as well as area residents.
Finally, the EEA was called upon by St. Joseph’s Service Center to help supply families with basic food needs. Again using NJEA PRIDE funding, the EEA purchased and donated more than $400 of non-perishable items to help stock their pantry.
Through the combined efforts of the EEA and community groups, hundreds of meals were distributed throughout the city to those who needed them the most.
