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December 16.2025

2 Minutes Read

Centenary University Launches Initiatives to Combat Food Insecurity in NJ

Young women volunteering at New Jersey food pantry, smiling group photo.

Centenary University Takes Action for Hunger and Homelessness Awareness

During Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week, Centenary University in Hackettstown, NJ, demonstrated its commitment to fighting food insecurity and housing instability through a week of dedicated service and education. Coordinated by the Hunger Task Force and Civic Engagement Center, the initiative aimed to raise awareness and provide tangible resources for students and local community members in need.

A Community United Through Service

“Through service, education, and collaboration, Centenary University showed its dedication to supporting those affected by hunger and homelessness,” said Jamie Weingarten, director of student activities. The week began with a coordinated social media awareness campaign, encouraging students to engage in discussions about food insecurity and providing steps to donate, volunteer, or seek assistance.

Educational Outreach on SNAP Benefits

One of the key events was a visit from Nicole Fernandez, a SNAP navigator who educated students on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits. Many students are unaware that they may qualify for food assistance based on their financial or living situations, and this session was crucial in bridging the knowledge gap.

Hands-On Approaches: Meal Bags and Food Drives

In partnership with Trinity Church, students assembled and distributed Thanksgiving meal bags, which allowed families to celebrate the holiday with dignity. Engagement in projects like this provided students with first-hand experience of the community's struggles with food insecurity. Additionally, the Psychology Club initiated a campus-wide canned food drive that will continue supporting local food pantries facing high demand.

Multicultural Celebrations and Sustainability

The week's activities culminated in a celebration of diversity through the Multicultural Feast organized by the Multicultural Club. Students prepared and shared meals that represented their cultural backgrounds, with surplus food made available through the campus food pantry, Cyclone Kitchen. This underscores Centenary's commitment not just to the awareness of hunger but to sustainable practices in addressing it.

Long-Term Community Commitment

Centenary's collaborative efforts during this week are not just a one-off venture. Plans to continue partnerships with organizations like Faithful Food Share to provide meals weekly highlight the university’s ongoing focus on community support. The institution seeks not only to inform but also to take sustained action against hunger and homelessness.

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