As the coronavirus crisis upends our daily lives, it’s also shown us how we can solve problems creatively. The Interfaith Food Pantry in Morris County resumed operation in June, supplying the community with a drive-thru farmers market.
The Interfaith Food Pantry—or IFP—is the largest provider of supplemental and emergency food in Morris County. In 2019 alone, the non-profit supplied over 1.2 million pounds of food to low-income households.
Due to lack of space, the IFP suspended its farmers market at the start of the coronavirus crisis this spring. But after partnering with roofing manufacturer GAF, the Pantry finally had room to get back to business.
On Friday, June 12th, GAF’s campus in Parsippany, NJ became an assembly line of aid. Volunteers from the IFP and GAF alike fetched free goods for needy families, including fresh produce kept cool in refrigerated trucks.
“Access to healthy foods and fresh produce continues to be a major issue affecting low-income families and individuals, made even more challenging by the ongoing pandemic,” said IFP organizers in an emailed statement. “Increased awareness and support of the free farmers market can make a significant impact in restoring a sense of normalcy for hundreds of households.”
Volunteers wore masks and placed groceries directly into the trunks of the waiting vehicles, maintaining safe social distance. At the end of a busy day, organizers stated that they provided food to over 500 families.
To learn more about the Interfaith Food Pantry in Morris County, be sure to check out their website. For more on GAF Roofing and their charity and community outreach, click here.
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