FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
May 13, 2025

CONTACT:
Frank Delvecchio
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Derek Sands
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COUNTY FOOD SECURITY OFFICE PARTNERS WITH RUN FOR HOPE FOUNDATION FOR ANNUAL WEEK OF ACTION FOOD DRIVE

Hackensack, NJ – The Bergen County Office of Food Security is proud to partner with the Run for Hope Foundation and the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Men’s Cornerstone group for the annual Week of Action Food Drive, taking place from Sunday, May 18 through Sunday, May 25. This initiative mobilizes residents to fight hunger and food insecurity by supporting local food pantries across Bergen County.

The Week of Action Food Drive has become a vital source of support for dozens of community-based food pantries, helping to provide essential items and relief to hundreds of individuals and families in need. The Run for Hope Foundation is a nonprofit organization committed to supporting first responders, veterans, military families, and other charitable causes that serve those in need. This year, the Men’s Cornerstone group from Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Ridgewood is serving as a lead community partner, helping expand local outreach and collection efforts.

Bergen County Executive Jim Tedesco praised the collaboration, stating: “We’re proud to support the Week of Action Food Drive and the incredible work being done by the Run for Hope Foundation. Combating hunger requires all of us to step up — and this effort is a great example of what’s possible when government, nonprofits, and residents come together to care for our neighbors.”

“Food insecurity continues to impact far too many families in our area,” said Frank DelVecchio, Founder of the Run for Hope Foundation. “Through the Week of Action, we’re helping ensure that no one in Bergen County goes hungry. It’s about neighbors helping neighbors — and making a tangible difference.”

Bergen County Commissioner Tracy Silna Zur, speaking on behalf of the Board of Commissioners, added: “Ensuring access to food is one of the most basic and essential services we can provide. The Week of Action reminds us that even small acts — like donating a few cans of food — can have a big impact in someone’s life. We’re grateful to the Run for Hope Foundation and all the community partners making this possible.”

Ramon M. Hache, Sr., CEO of the Ridgewood YMCA, emphasized the importance of local involvement: “At the Y, we believe that strong communities are built on compassion and service. We’re proud to serve as a collection site and to stand alongside so many partners committed to addressing food insecurity and ensuring dignity for every family.”

Deborah Visconi, President and CEO of Bergen New Bridge Medical Center, added: “As a safety-net hospital, we see firsthand the health impacts that food insecurity can have on individuals and families. Partnering in the Week of Action Food Drive reflects our mission to support the well-being of our community — not just through healthcare, but by helping address the root causes of health disparities, including access to nutritious food.”

Donations of non-perishable food items and toiletries can be dropped off in the lobby of 1 Bergen County Plaza during regular business hours. Additional collection sites include:

• Bergen New Bridge Medical Center, Paramus
• Ridgewood Village Hall
• Ridgewood YMCA
• Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church, Ridgewood
• Temple Israel, Ridgewood

For more information or to get involved, please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

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