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Category: Press Release

Media And News Press Releases About Table To Table

April 9, 2025 – Saddle Brook, NJ – The Morris County Chamber of Commerce has recognized Table to Table’s I-Rescue App with a 2025 Award for Nonprofit Excellence for Innovative Program. Less than six months since its launch into Morris County, I-Rescue – an innovative app that empowers volunteers to pick up and deliver food donations using their own vehicles, has already facilitated the rescue of more than 80,000 pounds of nutritious surplus food from local grocery stores, farmers markets and restaurants, and redirected it to pantries, shelters and other community agencies throughout Morris County. 

As New Jersey’s first and largest food rescue nonprofit, Table to Table mobilizes a fleet of refrigerated trucks, alongside hundreds of volunteers, to rescue over 20 million pounds of food each year and ensure it reaches neighbors facing food insecurity.

The expansion of I-Rescue into Morris County last fall was made possible by a generous grant from Impact 100 Garden State.

“We have been so warmly received throughout Morris County and we and could not be prouder of this recognition from The Morris County Chamber of Commerce,” said Heather Thompson, Executive Director, Table to Table. “We are especially grateful to our generous food donors, tireless volunteers, and community partners, as well as the members of Impact 100 Garden State. Every box of fresh produce, every tray of nutritious food, makes a real difference for someone who wasn’t sure where their next meal would come from. Together, we are bridging the gap between food waste and food insecurity,” Thompson concluded.


How does Table to Table I-Rescue Work?
Table to Table I-Rescue App, powered by Food Rescue Hero, allows volunteers to easily rescue surplus fresh and prepared food from local supermarkets, restaurants, and corporate cafeterias and deliver it to our neighbors facing food insecurity in about an hour. To learn more and download I-Rescue, go to https://tabletotable.org/i-rescue/.


About Table to Table
Table to Table (http://www.tabletotable.org) is New Jersey’s first and largest food rescue nonprofit, bridging the gap between food being wasted and people facing food insecurity. We bring rescued fresh, nutritious food to 303 community partners, including social service organizations, pantries, shelters, fresh produce markets and centralized distribution hubs. Food is provided free of charge. Through this, Table to Table touches a diversity of those in need, including families, children, veterans, and older adults, making good nutrition accessible while serving as a stimulus for other longer-term benefits. Since 1999 we have kept more than 120,700 tons of nutritious, edible food out of landfills—enough for 241,400,846 million meals—and delivered it to our neighbors in need, saving over 544 metric tons of methane from impacting climate change in the process.

Press Contact: Maria Sinopoli, Director of Marketing Communications: msinopoli@tabletotable.org

March 26, 2025 – Saddle Brook, NJ – Table to Table, New Jersey’s first and largest food rescue nonprofit, received a generous $25,000 grant from Avolta’s Journey for Good Foundation in support of its more than 25-year-old mission to reduce food waste and feed individuals and families facing food insecurity throughout northern New Jersey.

Journey For Good Foundation is the philanthropic arm in North America for Avolta, a leading global travel retail and food & beverage player. In the Summer of 2024, Table to Table launched an official partnership with Avolta to begin rescuing a range of food, including ‘grab and go’ sandwiches, salads, and snacks from numerous HMSHost and Hudson locations within Newark Liberty International Airport. This surplus, donated food is then delivered directly to pantries and social service organizations in Newark and surrounding communities, ensuring it reaches those who need it most while it is still fresh.

“Thank you, Journey For Good Foundation – we are incredibly grateful for your partnership. Through your support, Table to Table can keep more quality food out of landfills, and nourish even more children, families, seniors and veterans who struggle to put healthy meals on the table,” said Heather Thompson, Executive Director, Table to Table. “In fact, this incredible gift will provide resources for us to rescue and deliver enough food for approximately 250,000 nutritious meals.” Thompson concluded.

“On behalf of Journey For Good Foundation, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to the thousands of passengers who, through their generosity, have made it possible for us to give back to communities across northern New Jersey,” said Journey For Good Foundation Director Jordan Silverman. “We are deeply humbled to support Table to Table’s work reducing food waste and ensuring that nutritious food reaches our neighbors who need it most.”

About Table to Table 

Table to Table (http://www.tabletotable.org) is New Jersey’s first and largest food rescue nonprofit, bridging the gap between food being wasted and people facing food insecurity. We bring rescued fresh, nutritious food to 303 community partners, including social service organizations, pantries, shelters, fresh produce markets and centralized distribution hubs. Food is provided free of charge. Through this, Table to Table touches a diversity of those in need, including families, children, veterans, and older adults, making good nutrition accessible while serving as a stimulus for other longer-term benefits. Since 1999 we have rescued more than 120,700 tons of nutritious food—enough for 241,400,846 million meals—and delivered it to our neighbors in need, saving over 544 metric tons of methane saved.

About Journey For Good Foundation

Journey For Good Foundation, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) charity whose mission is to fight poverty in the local community with food, shelter, education, and workforce development. Prior to 2024, Journey For Good Foundation, Inc. operated as HMSHost Foundation, Inc. Journey For Good Foundation is a charitable arm of Avolta in North America and was established to unite and build upon HMSHost Foundation, Hudson, and Dufry’s charitable giving efforts. Charitable work carried out by Journey For Good Foundation is done based on pillars of giving:

·        Relieve hunger and promote nutritional wellness through food related initiatives;

·        Combat homelessness through access to safe housing, furnishings, clothing, and stable employment;

·        Encourage the next generation through access to education and training;

·        Provide opportunity for financial stability through hospitality industry training and placement;

·        Honor our veterans and their families by supporting programs that meet their needs for food, shelter, medical care, and job training and placement.

Visit https://journeyforgood.org/ for more information.

Related:

  • Table to Table, NJ’s First and Largest Food Rescue, Makes History by Partnering with HMSHost and Hudson at Newark Airport Stores to Pick Up Food Surplus

15th Annual Fashion Show to Feature Gourmet Food, Silent and Live Auction, and Runway Show

Saddle Brook, N.J. – February 26, 2025 – Behind the Seams, an annual high-energy fashion show, will benefit Table to Table, a community-based food rescue program, and take place at Bottagra Restaurant in Hawthorne on Wednesday, May 14 from 5:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. This year marks the 15th annual Behind the Seams which attracts over 300 guests each year. Proceeds from Behind the Seams will help Table to Table continue its mission of collecting fresh, nutritious, perishable food that would otherwise be wasted and delivering it free to organizations serving the hungry in Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Morris, and Passaic counties.

“Behind the Seams is one of my favorite nights of the year because it brings together a group of people who are passionate about giving back to their local communities and they create an energy and excitement that’s unparalleled,” said Joey Mazza, Director of Special Events and Restaurant Partnerships for Table to Table. “We look forward to a night of fine dining, entertainment, and fashion that will allow Table to Table feed our neighbors.”

Since Table to Table was established in 1999, it has:

  • Rescued 120,700 tons of nutritious food
  • Rescued and delivered enough food for 241,400,846 meals
  • Saved 544 metric tons of methane

Behind the Seams will consist of a lavish cocktail hour, gourmet food and beverage stations, silent and live auctions, and a tented runway show featuring 2025 spring and summer styles by two clothing boutiques with long-standing roots in New Jersey. Male styles will be presented by Sal Lauretta for Men, a men’s shop in Midland Park that specializes in fine made-to-measure and designer menswear. Boutique 811, a women’s fashion boutique in Franklin Lakes that offers unique styles plus personal styling services, will showcase seasonal trends for women.

Tickets for Behind the Seams 2025 are currently on sale. To purchase a ticket, reserve a table, or secure a sponsorship, visit: https://tabletotable.org/fashionshow/

About Table to Table
Table to Table (http://www.tabletotable.org) is New Jersey’s first and largest food rescue nonprofit, bridging the gap between food being wasted and people facing food insecurity. We bring rescued fresh, nutritious food to 303 partner organizations including social service organizations, pantries, shelters, fresh produce markets and centralized distribution hubs. Food is provided free of charge. Through this, Table to Table touches a diversity of those in need, including families, children, veterans, and older adults, making good nutrition accessible while serving as a stimulus for other longer-term benefits. Since 1999 we have rescued more than 120,700 tons of nutritious food—enough for more than 241 million meals—and delivered it to our neighbors in need, saving over 544 metric tons from being released into the environment. 

Photos available upon request

Nutritious Food From Newark Airport Will Nourish NJ Neighbors in Need and Reduce Food Waste 

December 17, 2024 – Saddle Brook, NJ – Table to Table, New Jersey’s first and largest food rescue nonprofit, has for the first time in its 25-year history added an airport to its food donor roster. Table to Table is rescuing a range of food, including ‘grab and go’ sandwiches, salads, and snacks from numerous HMSHost and Hudson locations within Newark Liberty International Airport.  

“With three billion meals wasted annually in New Jersey and one million residents experiencing food insecurity, Table to Table is truly grateful to have food donors like HMSHost and Hudson stores at Newark Liberty International Airport joining us to relieve hunger and reduce food waste,” said Heather Thompson, Executive Director, Table to Table. “Next time you walk through Newark Airport and notice all the fresh food at these retailers and restaurants—know that every week, all that extra food is being safely picked up and delivered to people who need it,” Thompson concluded. 

Table to Table’s partnership with HMSHost and Hudson—part of leading global travel experience player Avolta, which operates travel convenience, specialty retail, duty-free, and food and beverage locations in travel venues in 73 countries—soft-launched in late summer. Currently, Table to Table rescues food from nine HMSHost dining venues in Terminal B and seven Hudson retail locations in Terminals A and B. Plans are in place to grow the program with additional dining venues in Newark Airport’s Terminal C in the coming months. 

“Across our more than 2,000 travel retail and food and beverage locations in North America, there is a tremendous opportunity to have a positive impact in the communities we serve. We are proud to partner with Table to Table at Newark Liberty International Airport to help ensure that less food ends up in landfills and more of it finds a way to the tables of those who need it. We look forward to growing this program to fight food insecurity throughout New Jersey,” said Jordi Martin-Consuegra, Chief Operating Officer, North America, Avolta. 

About Table to Table   

Table to Table (http://www.tabletotable.org) is New Jersey’s first and largest food rescue nonprofit, bridging the gap between food being wasted and people facing food insecurity. We bring rescued fresh, nutritious food to 270+ partner organizations including social service organizations, pantries, shelters, fresh produce markets and centralized distribution hubs. Food is provided free of charge. Through this, Table to Table touches a diversity of those in need, including families, children, veterans, and older adults, making good nutrition accessible while serving as a stimulus for other longer-term benefits. Since 1999 we have rescued more than 109,000 tons of nutritious food—enough for over 311 million meals—and delivered it to our neighbors in need, saving over 72,000 tons of CO2eq from being released into the environment.  

Press Contact:   

Maria Sinopoli, Director of Marketing Communications   

msinopoli@tabletotable.org  

September 30, 2024 – Saddle Brook, NJ – Table to Table’s 25th Anniversary Chefs Gala, which featured an all-star lineup of more than 25 of New Jersey’s best chefs who crafted their delicious, multi-course menus for guests tableside, raised enough funds to provide 4.5 million nutritious meals. Presented by American Express, this year’s Chefs Gala recognized Chef Jamie Knott as the 2024 Chefs Honoree. Fellow Chefs Ryan DePersio and AJ Capella were the event Co-Chairs, and Chefs David Burke, Nicholas Gatti, and Peter X. Kelly, were inducted into the Founder’s Table, along with other long-time supporters. For the complete list of chefs and mixologists who attended, click here. 

“Our hearts are full. We marked Table to Table’s silver anniversary with an unforgettable event, and we could not have done it without the generous support of our culinary masters, sponsors, partners, and attendees,” said Heather Thompson, Executive Director, Table to Table. “Together, we raised enough to rescue and deliver food for more than 4.5 million healthy meals for our neighbors who struggle to put food on the table,” Thompson concluded.  

Chef Honoree Jamie Knott  

On this milestone anniversary, Table to Table recognized one of New Jersey’s most inventive chef entrepreneurs, the avant-garde culinary master, Jamie Knott. His diverse experience across various culinary styles has established him as a leading figure in the industry. As the chef-owner of such notable restaurants as Saddle River Inn, Cellar 335, Saddle River Café and Madame, Chef Knott warmly welcomes guests for flavorful, unforgettable dining experiences focused on locally sourced, fresh ingredients, reflecting Knott’s commitment to quality. Jamie’s portfolio of restaurants is consistently praised and acknowledged by media and influencers alike. Educated at the New York Restaurant School, his career has been marked by innovation and a deep understanding of the culinary world. Jamie is also deeply committed to giving back to the community through his involvement with Table to Table and several other NJ nonprofits.  

At the Gala, Table to Table proudly announced and welcomed Chef Knott as the newest member of their Board of Trustees. 

Co-Chairpersons Chef Ryan DePersio and Chef AJ Capella  

Chefs Ryan DePersio and AJ Capella, the event’s Co-Chairs, lent their culinary expertise to make this year’s event an unforgettable experience. Ryan is the owner of Battello and Kitchen Step both in Jersey City as well as Ember and Eagle in Eatontown, while AJ is the Executive Chef of Summit House in Summit.  

Special Honorees  

At this year’s Chefs Gala, Table to Table proudly welcomed several long-time supporters to its Founder’s Table: Chef David Burke, Chef Nicholas Gatti, Chef Peter X. Kelly, Eva Megerle, and the Bernard and Geraldine Segal Foundation. The Founder’s Table was established in 2023 by Table to Table’s Founder Claire Insalata Poulos to recognize individuals, companies, and foundations that have provided extraordinary support to the nonprofit over its 25-year history.  

Additionally, Trustee Emeritus Tracy Nieporent was presented with the Tutti a Tavola Distinguished Award.  

Sponsors for this year’s Table to Table’s Chefs Gala included: American Express (Presenting), American Airlines, Arca Restaurant and Lounge and Crestron (Grand), Inserra ShopRite Supermarkets and Summit Associates (Platinum); David and Kathleen Hildes (Gold); Columbia Bank Foundation, The Kamson Corporation, Takasago and Wegmans (Silver) and Peapack-Gladstone Bank, Valley Bank and Wakefern (Bronze). 

For 25 years, Table to Table, New Jersey’s first food rescue, has bridged the gap between food waste and food insecurity. The organization partners with supermarkets, distributors, restaurants, and others to rescue surplus, quality food, and delivers it directly to nonprofit community partners serving children and families, seniors, veterans, and other neighbors in need.   

What began in 1999 with one food rescue in a donated van, has flourished to become an efficient and impactful operation and a force for change that—to date—has resulted in the rescue and delivery of enough food for over 311 million healthy meals throughout northern New Jersey. To mark their milestone anniversary, the nonprofit has set a goal of rescuing/delivering enough fresh food for 25 million meals this year, via its fleet of 6 trucks and volunteer-based app, Table to Table I-Rescue. The 2024 Chefs Gala is poised to raise enough for 5 million meals. 

To help Table to Table in their mission to reduce food waste and address food insecurity in New Jersey, you can make a donation today – every dollar you contribute provides resources for the organization to rescue and deliver food for 10 healthy meals. For more information on Table to Table, visit www.tabletotable.org.  

About Table to Table  

Table to Table (http://www.tabletotable.org), NJ’s first food rescue organization, collects fresh and perishable food which would otherwise be wasted and delivers it to organizations that serve people experiencing hunger in Bergen, Hudson, Essex, and Passaic counties in Northern NJ. We bring rescued fresh, nutritious food to 200+ partner organizations including social service organizations, pantries, shelters, fresh produce markets and centralized distribution hubs. Food is provided free of charge. Through this, we touch a diversity of those in need, including families, children, veterans, and older adults, making good nutrition accessible while serving as a stimulus for other longer-term benefits. Table to Table raises all its own funds annually, and last year delivered enough food to provide over 23 million meals.  

Press Contact:  

Maria Sinopoli, Director of Marketing Communications  

msinopoli@tabletotable.org  

August 21, 2024 – Saddle Brook, NJ – In preparation for its 25th Anniversary Chefs Gala, Table to Table, NJ’s first and most successful food rescue organization, announced its all-star lineup of more than 25 of New Jersey’s best chefs who will craft their delicious, multi-course menus for guests tableside on September 25th at Edgewood Country Club in River Vale, NJ at 6pm. Presented by American Express, this year’s Chefs Gala welcomes Chef Jamie Knott as the 2024 Chefs Honoree, joining fellow Chefs Ryan DePersio and AJ Capella as the event Co-Chairs, and Chefs David Burke, Nicholas Gatti, and Peter X. Kelly, inductees into the Founder’s Table. This is a limited seat engagement, reserve your table today! 

“Our Chefs Gala will truly be a who’s who of more than 25 of New Jersey’s culinary masters,” said Heather Thompson, Executive Director, Table to Table. “This is not your typical fundraising dinner! It will be a unique and unforgettable event with delicious cuisine and expertly selected wine pairings…not to mention our exciting live auction, with every dollar raised supporting Table to Table’s mission to reduce food waste and relieve hunger in our communities. We cannot wait to have this outstanding talent together in one room,” Thompson concluded. 

Participating Chefs and Mixologists

Guiseppe Agostino, Verana

John Michael Beam, Afficionado Coffee Roasters

Kristi Taylor Beighley, Silk City Distillers

Luis Blasini-Sinchi, 7 Doors Down Ramen

Anthony Bucco, Landmark Hospitality

Brandon Campney, Stirling Tavern

Carlo Carbonaro & Robert Vicari, Bottagra

Thomas Ciszak, Brasserie Memere

Bianca Concepcion & Ben Del Coro, Fossil Farms

Mary Cumella & Logan Ramirez, Gioia Mia

Antonio De Ieso, Fiorentini

Lexi Dimeo, Stiir Mobile Bar Service

Leia Gaccione, South + Pine American Eatery

Felix Gonzalez, Viaggio

Alex Gorant, Axia Taverna

Matt Gregg, Barnegat Oyster Collective

Corey Heyer, Canoe Brook Country Club

Andrea Lekberg, Artist Baker

Christina Marcelli, Marcelli Formaggi

Halle Medici, Saddle River Inn

Frank Medina, Kitchen Step, Battello, Ember & Eagle

Christian Nicosia, Ghost Hawk Brewery

Sal Pisani, Jersey Artisan Co.

Hank Reed, Mazur Chocolates

Matt Rios, Gerard Bertrand Wines

Ehren Ryan, Common Lot, BYRD

Dean Schreefer, Echo Lake Country Club

Robert Sigona, Gelotti

Tom Silvestri, ORA

Melissa Stanard, the goods

Lawrence Talis, Blue Steel Pizza Co.

Joe Tartamella, Felina

Geoff Taylor, 130 Club

Bryan Tiedemann, Dirty Pelican

Chef Honoree Jamie Knott  

On this milestone anniversary, we recognize one of New Jersey’s most inventive chef entrepreneurs, the avant-garde culinary master: Jamie Knott. His diverse experience across various culinary styles has established him as a leading figure in the industry. As the chef-owner of such notable restaurants as Saddle River Inn, Saddle River Café Madame, and Kinjo—his latest masterpiece—Chef Knott warmly welcomes guests for flavorful, unforgettable dining experience focused on locally sourced, fresh ingredients, reflecting Knott’s commitment to quality. Jamie’s portfolio of restaurants is consistently praised and acknowledged by media and influencers alike. Educated at the New York Restaurant School, his career has been marked by innovation and a deep understanding of the culinary world. Jamie is also deeply committed to giving back to the community through his involvement with Table to Table and several other NJ nonprofits.   

Co-Chairpersons Chef Ryan DePersio and Chef AJ Capella    

Chefs Ryan DePersio and AJ Capella are the Co-Chairs, lending their culinary expertise to make this year’s event an unforgettable experience. Ryan is the owner of Battello and Kitchen Step both in Jersey City as well as Ember and Eagle in Eatontown while AJ is the Executive Chef of Summit House in Summit.  

Founder’s Table Honorees  

At this year’s Chefs Gala, Table to Table will proudly welcome the new additions to its Founder’s Table: Chef David Burke, Chef Nicholas Gatti, Chef Peter X. Kelly, Eva Megerle, and the Bernard and Geraldine Segal Foundation. The Founder’s Table was established in 2023 by Table to Table’s Founder Claire Insalata Poulos to recognize individuals, companies and foundations that have provided extraordinary support to the nonprofit over its 25-year history.  

Sponsors for this year’s Table to Table’s Chefs Gala include: American Express (Presenting), American Airlines, Arca Restaurant and Lounge and Crestron (Grand), Inserra ShopRite Supermarkets and Summit Associates (Platinum); Takasago and Wegmans (Silver) and Peapack-Gladstone Bank (Bronze). 

For questions about the event, please contact Joey Mazza, Director of Events and Restaurant Partnerships, jmazza@tabletotable.org  

For 25 years, Table to Table, New Jersey’s first food rescue, has bridged the gap between food waste and food insecurity. The organization partners with supermarkets, distributors, restaurants, and others to rescue surplus, quality food, and delivers it directly to nonprofit community partners serving children and families, seniors, veterans, and other neighbors in need.   

What began in 1999 with one food rescue in a donated van, has flourished to become an efficient and impactful operation and a force for change that—to date—has resulted in the rescue and delivery of enough food for over 311 million healthy meals throughout northern New Jersey. To mark their milestone anniversary, the nonprofit has set a goal of rescuing/delivering enough fresh food for 25 million meals this year, via its fleet of 6 trucks and volunteer-based app, Table to Table I-Rescue. The 2024 Chefs Gala is poised to raise enough for 5 million meals.  

To help Table to Table in their mission to reduce food waste and address food insecurity in New Jersey, you can make a donation today – every dollar you contribute provides resources for the organization to rescue and deliver food for 10 healthy meals. For more information on Table to Table, visit www.tabletotable.org.  

About Table to Table  

Table to Table (http://www.tabletotable.org), NJ’s first food rescue organization, collects fresh and perishable food which would otherwise be wasted and delivers it to organizations that serve people experiencing hunger in Bergen, Hudson, Essex, and Passaic counties in Northern NJ. We bring rescued fresh, nutritious food to 200+ partner organizations including social service organizations, pantries, shelters, fresh produce markets and centralized distribution hubs. Food is provided free of charge. Through this, we touch a diversity of those in need, including families, children, veterans, and older adults, making good nutrition accessible while serving as a stimulus for other longer-term benefits. Table to Table raises all its own funds annually, and last year delivered enough food to provide over 23 million meals.  

Press Contact:  

Maria Sinopoli, Director of Marketing Communications  

msinopoli@tabletotable.org  

United Community Corporation Delivered Food and Stocked the Refrigerator

Newark, NJ—July 17, 2024—Mayor Ras J. Baraka joined United Community Corporation (UCC) today to cut the ribbon to open the Hyatt Center of Hope’s community refrigerator. The Center of Hope is located at 11 Hawkins Court.

UCC partnered with the city and Table to Table to develop the refrigerator food service and made the first delivery to stock it immediately before the event today. Future deliveries will be made by Table to Table.

Attendees included the H.I.P.P. Afterschool Program, the Devils Youth Foundation, Yendor Arts, and more than 30 youth participating in the city’s summer camp program. The Hyatt Center of Hope is currently expanding to address the needs of senior citizens.

“A basic need of human beings is nourishment, both for the body and the soul,” said Mayor Baraka. “By providing this refrigerator and its contents 24/7 to the neighbors here in the East Ward, we meet both needs, as we feed and affirm the value of these residents to our citywide community. Newark is shrinking our food deserts neighborhood by neighborhood, and infusing these areas with healthful meal essentials to build strong, healthy individuals and families, and improve their quality of life.”

UCC is also providing additional staffing and resources for the center, which provides programs to 30 youth during the school year and 34 during the summer.

“With the installation of our seventh community refrigerator, UCC is taking a pivotal step in combating food insecurity in Newark,” said UCC Executive Director Craig Mainor. “Together, we are ensuring that Newark families have reliable access to fresh and nutritious food, reinforcing our commitment to supporting the well-being and resilience of our community. We are grateful for our partnerships with the Center of Hope, Table to Table and Newark Housing Authority to help bring healthy food directly to communities that need it most.”

The UCC Community Refrigerator program is tackling food insecurity head-on with units that are installed across each of Newark’s five wards. UCC YouthBuild students, under the guidance of a construction manager, design, build and install each of the community refrigerator structures. The refrigerators provide residents with around-the-clock access to staple goods such as milk, juice, cheese, fresh fruits and vegetables, all at no cost.

“As a food rescue nonprofit that has been working in New Jersey for 25 years, Table to Table is committed to keeping quality food out of landfills and ensuring that is reaches communities where it’s most needed,” said Table to Table Executive Director Heather Thompson. “Our goal is to get healthy food into neighborhoods as efficiently as possible, and we’re grateful to partner with the City of Newark and UCC on this wonderful initiative, to make sure this refrigerator remains stocked with fresh, nutritious items. We invite residents to volunteer with us to assist with the twice-weekly transports so we can keep our neighbors nourished.”

“I want to thank the Mayor and all those involved in making this day happen,” said East Ward Council Member Michael J. Silva. “It’s a great day for the City and a great day for the East Ward. As Council Member of the East Ward, it is important to make sure that my residents have a quality of life – a meaning a place to live, are safe, but also making sure they have food on the table. Many people are suffering in today’s society with the cost of housing and groceries. Putting a decent meal on the table for their families is sometimes impossible. But today is a prime example of how the City of Newark, with its seventh food refrigerator, is always putting its residents first.”

Food insecurity is an issue that reaches each of Newark’s five wards. In 2022, sections of each ward were designated as “food deserts” by the state Economic Development Authority. A food desert is defined as a region where people have limited access to healthy and affordable food.

“As a parent and a community leader who thrives on success, there is no worse feeling than trying to comfort or care for a child that’s hungry. Did you know that a child that’s hungry has a harder time trying to listen or learn? We are delighted to have this community refrigerator at the Hyatt Court Hope Center location, which encompasses unity, growth, love, compassion, and honor. I look forward to watching this program grow like flowers throughout the City of Newark and I take pride in knowing that children and families will be positively affected by it,” said Ms. Mincey.

The initiative expanded since UCC’s first refrigerator was installed at 106 Ann Street in the city’s East Ward. In addition to the recent launch of the community refrigerator at Hyatt Court, the agency currently operates units in Newark outside Fulton Street Emergency Shelter at 31 Fulton Street, The Village Housing Complex at 332 South 8th Street, La Casa de Don Pedro at its 39 Broadway location, in the Shani Baraka Women’s Center, and at 1916 Springfield Avenue, in Maplewood.

UCC’s community refrigerator program is made possible through the support of various partners including the Devils Youth Foundation, the Office of Faith-Based Initiatives, Wellpoint, the Community FoodBank of New Jersey, MEND, Investors Bank, and the Presbytery of Northeast New Jersey.

Alongside this effort, UCC hosts routine distribution events in the city. Fresh groceries and boxed foods are a staple at any event, while providing other outreach resources.

Related:

June 10, 2024 – Saddle Brook, NJ – Imagine a Gala unlike any other, where celebrated chefs cook tableside, personally dedicated to crafting a delicious multi-course feast especially for you and your guests. On September 25th, Table to Table will host New Jersey’s culinary event of the year: the 2024 Chefs Gala, a reimagined experience celebrating 25 years of impact and featuring 25 of New Jersey’s best chefs! Table to Table’s Chefs Gala will be held at Edgewood Country Club in River Vale, NJ at 6 pm. Seats are limited, so reserve your table today! 

This unique personal dining experience in the settling of an elegant Gala offers unforgettable cuisine, impeccable wine pairings, an exciting live auction, and so much more—all in support of Table to Table’s Silver Anniversary and our mission to rescue food, reduce waste, and relieve hunger in our communities.   

“We’re elated to celebrate our silver anniversary by putting a fresh new twist on a celebrated event,” said Heather Thompson, Executive Director, Table to Table. “What better way to celebrate 25 years of impact—reducing food waste and nourishing neighbors in need—than with an unparalleled culinary experience bringing together 25 of NJ’s best chefs, and Jamie Knott as our Chef Honoree,” Thompson concluded

Chef Honoree Jamie Knott 

On this milestone anniversary, we recognize one of New Jersey’s most inventive chef entrepreneurs, the avant-garde culinary master: Jamie Knott. His diverse experience across various culinary styles has established him as a leading figure in the industry. As the chef-owner of such notable restaurants as Saddle River Inn, Madame, and Kinjo—his latest masterpiece—Chef Knott warmly welcomes guests for a flavorful, unforgettable dining experience focused on locally sourced, fresh ingredients, reflecting Knott’s commitment to quality. Jamie’s portfolio of restaurants is consistently praised and acknowledged by media and influencers alike. Educated at the New York Restaurant School, his career has been marked by innovation and a deep understanding of the culinary world. Jamie is also deeply committed to giving back to the community through his involvement with Table to Table and several other New Jersey nonprofits.  

Co-Chairpersons Chef Ryan DePersio and Chef A.J. Capella 

Chefs Ryan DePersio and A.J. Capella have joined the event as Co-Chairs, lending their culinary expertise to make this year’s event an unforgettable experience. Ryan is the owner of Battello and Kitchen Step both in Jersey City as well as Ember and Eagle in Eatontown while AJ is the Executive Chef of Summit House in Summit. 

Founder’s Table Honorees 

At this year’s Chefs Gala, Table to Table will proudly welcome four new members to its Founder’s Table: Chef David Burke, Chef Nicholas Gatti, Chef Peter X. Kelly, and Eva Megerle. The Founder’s Table was established in 2023 by Table to Table’s Founder Claire Insalata Poulos to recognize individuals, companies and foundations that have provided extraordinary support to the nonprofit over its 25-year history. 

Sponsors for this year’s Table to Table’s Chefs Gala include: Crestron, Inserra ShopRite Supermarkets (Grand); Summit Associates (Platinum); Takasago (Silver), and Peapack-Gladstone Bank (Bronze).

For questions about the event, please contact Joey Mazza, Director of Events and Restaurant Partnerships, jmazza@tabletotable.org. 

25 years of Impact 

For 25 years, Table to Table, New Jersey’s first food rescue, has bridged the gap between food waste and food insecurity. The organization partners with supermarkets, distributors, restaurants, and others to rescue surplus, quality food, and delivers it directly to nonprofit community partners serving children and families, seniors, veterans, and other neighbors in need.  

What began in 1999 with one food rescue in a donated van, has flourished to become an efficient and impactful operation and a force for change that—to date—has resulted in the rescue and delivery of enough food for over 311 million healthy meals throughout northern New Jersey. To mark their milestone anniversary, the nonprofit has set a goal of rescuing/delivering enough fresh food for 25 million meals this year, via its fleet of 6 trucks and volunteer-based app, Table to Table I-Rescue. The 2024 Chefs Gala is poised to raise enough for 5 million meals. 

To help Table to Table in their mission to reduce food waste and address food insecurity in New Jersey, you can make a donation today – every dollar you contribute provides resources for the organization to rescue and deliver food for 10 healthy meals. For more information on Table to Table, visit www.tabletotable.org. 

About Table to Table 

Table to Table (http://www.tabletotable.org), NJ’s first food rescue organization, collects fresh and perishable food which would otherwise be wasted and delivers it to organizations that serve people experiencing hunger in Bergen, Hudson, Essex, and Passaic counties in Northern NJ. We bring rescued fresh, nutritious food to 200+ partner organizations including social service organizations, pantries, shelters, fresh produce markets and centralized distribution hubs. Food is provided free of charge. Through this, we touch a diversity of those in need, including families, children, veterans, and older adults, making good nutrition accessible while serving as a stimulus for other longer-term benefits. Table to Table raises all its own funds annually, and last year delivered enough food to provide over 23 million meals. 

Press Contact: 

Maria Sinopoli, Director of Marketing Communications 

msinopoli@tabletotable.org 

Funding Will Help New Jersey’s First Food Rescue Organization Reduce Food Waste And Deliver Non-Perishable Items to Communities in Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Morris and Passaic Counties

Saddle Brook, NJ (June 25, 2024) – Table to Table, a local non-profit organization dedicated to reducing food waste and feeding food-insecure neighbors, has received a $50,000 grant from Bank of America (BofA).

The grant will help Table to Table continue work to provide fresh, nourishing food for children and families, seniors, veterans, people with disabilities, and people facing financial difficulties. Increasing food and nutrition access will support better health for thousands of people while improving economic mobility in northern New Jersey. For 25 years, Table to Table’s work has positively impacted the individuals and families who receive food through partner organizations. Table to Table supports health and wellness through ongoing access to fresh produce, protein, dairy, and other healthy staples that are expensive and not readily available through more traditional food distributions.

“Enough food for more than 3 billion meals is wasted annually in our state, while nearly 1 million people face food insecurity,” says Heather Thompson, Executive Director, Table to Table. “BofA’s generous support and continued investment strengthens our mission, allowing us to get more fresh, nutritious food to those who truly need it and—in the process—ensuring that quality food doesn’t end up in landfills. We are incredibly grateful,” Thompson concluded.

The grant is part of Bank of America’s philanthropic giving efforts in local communities. Awardees were selected for their commitment to improving the lives of individuals and families, including health and jobs.

“Working with Table to Table to increase food security and nutrition access for the residents of Northern New Jersey is part of our commitment to promoting positive change throughout the state,” said Alberto Garofalo, President of Bank of America New Jersey. “Their work isn’t just about sustenance, it is about delivering fresh and nutritious food that would otherwise be wasted. Investing in Table to Table demonstrates our role as a catalyst in strengthening our communities.”

Table to Table

Founded in 1999, Table to Table is New Jersey’s first and largest food rescue nonprofit. What began with one food rescue in a donated van, has flourished to become an efficient and impactful operation and a force for change that—to date—has resulted in the rescue and delivery of enough food for over 311 million healthy meals throughout northern New Jersey. To mark their milestone 25th anniversary, the nonprofit has set a goal of rescuing/delivering enough fresh food for 25 million meals this year, via its fleet of 6 trucks and volunteer-based app, Table to Table I-Rescue. Visit Table to Table’s “Drive for 25” for 25 fun, easy and actionable ways to celebrate and drive impact!

Bank of America

Bank of America is one of the world’s leading financial institutions, serving individual consumers, small and middle-market businesses and large corporations with a full range of banking, investing, asset management and other financial and risk management products and services. The company provides unmatched convenience in the United States, serving approximately 69 million consumer and small business clients with approximately 3,800 retail financial centers, approximately 15,000 ATMs (automated teller machines) and award-winning digital banking with approximately 57 million verified digital users. Bank of America is a global leader in wealth management, corporate and investment banking and trading across a broad range of asset classes, serving corporations, governments, institutions and individuals around the world. Bank of America offers industry-leading support to approximately 4 million small business households through a suite of innovative, easy-to-use online products and services. The company serves clients through operations across the United States, its territories and more than 35 countries. Bank of America Corporation stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: BAC).

Reporters may contact:

Maria Sinopoli

Director of Marketing Communications

msinopoli@tabletotable.org

Funding Will Help the Nonprofit Expand its Food Rescue Efforts into Morris County

June 6, 2024 – Saddle Brook, NJ – Table to Table, New Jersey’s first food rescue organization, is the proud recipient of a $100,000 grant from Impact 100 Garden State for its program, Food Rescue Heroes: Bridging the Gap Between Food Waste & Food Insecurity. The generous funding will allow the food rescue nonprofit, which celebrates its 25th anniversary, to expand its mission of rescuing food, reducing waste, and relieving hunger into Morris County, adding to its existing footprint of Bergen, Essex, Hudson, and Passaic counties. Food rescue efforts for this grant will be supported by Table to Table I-Rescue, the nonprofit’s popular volunteer-based app. To volunteer, download Table to Table I-Rescue, click here.

“We are over the moon with excited and incredibly grateful to the altruism of Impact 100 Garden State for choosing to make this investment in Table to Table’s mission,” said Heather Thompson, Executive Director, Table to Table. “We are eager to spread our wings into Morris County with our Table to Table I-Rescue App, and we welcome local Morris County volunteers,” Thompson concluded.

Impact 100 Garden State, an all-women, all-volunteer organization, pools member contributions to make high-impact grants. The group has donated more than $3.5 million to area nonprofits since it began grant-giving in 2013. This year a record membership of 408 women allowed Impact100 Garden State to give four $100,000 grants for the first time.

For 25 years, Table to Table, New Jersey’s first food rescue, has bridged the gap for local neighbors in need by reducing food waste, sustaining those who are struggling, and contributing to their better health outcomes. We recognize the vital role that fresh food plays in nourishing not only the body, but also the spirit and mind.

What began in 1999 with one food rescue in a donated van, has flourished to become an efficient and impactful operation and a force for change that—to date—has resulted in the rescue and delivery of enough food for over 311 million healthy meals throughout northern New Jersey. To mark this milestone, the nonprofit has set a goal of rescuing/delivering enough fresh food for 25 million meals this year, via its fleet of 6 trucks and volunteer-based app, Table to Table I-Rescue. Visit Table to Table’s “Drive for 25” for 25 fun, easy and actionable ways to celebrate and drive impact!

To help Table to Table in their mission to reduce food waste and address food insecurity in New Jersey, you can make a donation today – every dollar you contribute provides resources for the organization to rescue and deliver food for 10 healthy meals. For more information on Table to Table, visit www.tabletotable.org.

About Table to Table

Table to Table (http://www.tabletotable.org), NJ’s first food rescue organization, collects fresh and perishable food which would otherwise be wasted and delivers it to organizations that serve people experiencing hunger in Bergen, Hudson, Essex, and Passaic counties in Northern NJ. We bring rescued fresh, nutritious food to 200+ partner organizations including social service organizations, pantries, shelters, fresh produce markets and centralized distribution hubs. Food is provided free of charge. Through this, we touch a diversity of those in need, including families, children, veterans, and older adults, making good nutrition accessible while serving as a stimulus for other longer-term benefits. Table to Table raises all its own funds annually, and last year delivered enough food to provide over 23 million meals.

Press Contact:

Maria Sinopoli, Director of Marketing Communications

msinopoli@tabletotable.org

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