The Borough of Bergenfield is working to develop a lasting partnership with the nonprofit Table to Table, which provides those in need with fresh produce. Earlier this week, the Borough received its first donation from the nonprofit, and food was distributed to dozens of families on Tuesday afternoon. The COVID-19 pandemic has had devastating financial impacts and Bergenfield has been working tirelessly to ensure no family is left without food to put on their tables.
“Each of us has been affected in one way or another by the global health crisis, but the selflessness and compassion that has been shown to those in need is truly inspiring,” said Mayor Arvin Amatorio. “We have seen countless residents, business owners, and organizations step up to the plate to help those in their time of need and I am incredibly grateful for their generosity. It is actions like these that should remind us all why we are proud to call Bergenfield home.”
The Borough’s food bank has also served as a lifeline for residents during the COVID-19 pandemic and continues to operate at VFW Post 6467 (321 S. Washington Avenue). Donations are still being accepted; nonperishable food can be brought directly at the VFW and monetary donations can be dropped off at Borough Hall. Table to Table is a Hasbrouck Heights-based food rescue organization that provides perishable goods to those in need and the Borough is working to expand its relationship with a nonprofit based on need and availability.
Several local grocery stores have also donated to the Food Bank, including American Pinoy Food Mart, Ramz Oriental Food Mart, Mi Tienda Carniceria, Lidl Supermarket and Sariling Atin Grill and Supermarket. Sariling Atin in particular has shown tremendous generosity, making three donations totaling over $5,000 in goods.
“Over the past two and a half months, our community has come together to support our neighbors in more ways than ever before,” said Councilman Hernando Rivera. “No individual should ever go hungry and we’ve been working hard to address the growing concern of food insecurity within the Borough. We remain committed to keeping our food bank open to those in need and look forward to establishing a longer runner partnership with Table to Table.”