Fulfill Celebrates 40 Years of Fighting Hunger

The nonprofit strengthens communities in Monmouth and Ocean Counties, one meal at a time.

Neptune, NJ – What began as a compassionate response to a local need has blossomed into an extraordinary journey for Fulfill, formerly known as The FoodBank of Monmouth and Ocean Counties. The roots of this endeavor were planted in 1984 with the simple act of serving 25 charities with 100,000 pounds of food in a Spring Lake warehouse. A decade later, the same warehouse witnessed the distribution of nearly 2 million pounds of food annually. The narrative unfolded further with a pivotal capital campaign in 1998, leading to the construction of a new facility in Neptune. In 2014, the distribution soared to an astounding 8 million pounds of food through a network of 260 feeding programs, showcasing the incredible progress and growth the nonprofit had in combatting hunger.

Today, as Fulfill proudly celebrates its 40-year anniversary, the journey reflects a commitment to accelerating food security through collaborative movements that address systemic barriers to self-sufficiency and well-being. “Our mission is not just about food distribution; it’s about connecting people to resources and dismantling systemic barriers that perpetuate hunger,” said Triada Stampas, President & CEO of Fulfill.

Fulfill, as an active member of Feeding America, positions itself as a crucial player in local, state, and national alliances dedicated to advancing food security comprehensively.

The organization, now distributing 1.1 million meals per month, stands as a source of inspiration in Monmouth and Ocean Counties. Partnerships with nearly 300 communitybased organizations drive the ground-level efforts to distribute food and connect people to essential services. Simultaneously, Fulfill collaborates with others to develop a comprehensive, holistic response to food insecurity, addressing the root causes of poverty and social injustice.

Fulfill’s collaboration with the Causeway Family of Dealerships and Causeway CARes started many years ago through David C. Wintrode, President of Causeway Family of Dealerships/Causeway CARes, and former Fulfill Board Member.

“I am carrying the torch that Dave was running with for nine years,” said Joseph Stroffolino, current Fulfill Board Treasurer, incoming Vice-Chair, and Director of Advertising and Marketing of Causeway Family of Dealerships/Causeway CARes.“Whenever we have a partnership agency that needs transportation, we have always been able to assist in finding the appropriate vehicle.”

At last count, Causeway CARes has purchased, recycled and donated over 30 vehicles through its CauseWheels Vehicle Donation Program. “Most of these recipients have been partners of Fulfill,” said Wintrode. “The key is always collaboration. That’s the whole purpose of Causeway CARes – to give back to our nonprofit partners.”

As Fulfill marks four decades of unwavering commitment, the organization continues to evolve, forging partnerships, attracting donors, and growing its impact. Fulfill is not just a food bank; it is a testament to the power of collective action against hunger, a beacon of hope for the community It serves. To learn more about Fulfill’s mission or to become involved in the movement, visit www.fulfillnj.org.

About Fulfill
Fulfill, the FoodBank for Monmouth and Ocean Counties, has been dedicated to addressing hunger in the Jersey Shore community since 1984. As an active member of Feeding America, Fulfill proudly works with a network of nearly 300 partners, including soup kitchens, food pantries, and shelters, to provide 1.1 million meals per month to area residents, families, children, seniors, and veterans in need. Committed to more than just food distribution, Fulfill also offers connections to affordable healthcare options, Medicaid, SNAP benefit assistance programs, and other services to help
neighbors lead healthy and self-sufficient lives. To learn more or become involved, visit www.fulfillnj.org.

About Causeway CARes
Causeway CARes’ mission is to make a direct and profound impact in and around Ocean County in the areas of education, food security and quality of life. Founded in 2004 and funded by the Wintrode Family Foundation, Inc., Causeway CARes strives to make the community a better place to live grow and thrive. To learn more, visit https://causewaycares.com.

articles icon   Back

The Causeway Gazette?