Amidst today’s numerous challenges, 233 Philadelphia Avenue in Egg Harbor City stands as a community-led beacon for those in need.
The white building, accented by blue and lavender hues, next to the post office, houses NO1hungryinEHC Inc and Angela’s on the Avenue – a food pantry and thrift store that has redefined the community hub.
“We want everyone to feel respected and equal,” Founder Angela Krukauskas said. “This is a community effort, built by the community.”
Inspired by the support she received during her husband’s illness, Krukauskas began by stocking her yard library with essentials like macaroni and cheese, tuna, and beans. As demand grew, so did her efforts, leading to the creation of a fully stocked pantry and thrift store inside the donated building.
“We have grown from a small space that held 10 boxes to a building that can accommodate hundreds of families at once,” she said. “It was my goal to create a very welcoming living room and an inviting entry space so no one has to feel less than worthy or afraid to ask for help.
“And in today’s economy, in the world we live in, we are seeing absolutely the best of humanity coming through our doors and our back doors and our bank accounts and our windows and any way we need them to do to support us.”
Beyond providing food, the pantry helps the community through programs like a backpack program for schoolchildren and a Christmas event where families can trade volunteer hours for gifts. The pantry’s partnership with the Red Cross also allows for emergency food deliveries via a donated ambulance.
Volunteers, who self-identify as a community of neighbors helping neighbors, play a crucial role in the organization’s success. Remarkably, no one receives a salary; the pantry operates entirely on volunteer efforts and donations.
“On any given day, we have about 25 volunteers who pour their hearts into this place,” said Meredith Lodge, director of operations. “It’s truly touching.”
This Thanksgiving, the pantry will distribute complete meal kits, including turkeys and all the accompanying trimmings, owing to generous donations.
“We have received more donations than ever this year, which is encouraging,” Lodge remarked.
The pantry also partners with local schools and businesses for food drives, and anyone in need can receive assistance, regardless of their financial situation.
“We don’t approve people; we register them,” Krukauskas said. “Everyone has bad months.”
The pantry’s innovative approach encompasses food drives for specific items, such as peanut butter and cereal, which are particularly crucial for families with busy parents, Lodge said. Additionally, perishables like eggs, milk, and butter are consistently in high demand.
NO1hungryinEHC Inc is located at 233 Philadelphia Avenue in Egg Harbor City. Its hours of operation are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Tuesday and Wednesday, and on the third Saturday of every month, as well as 2 to 6 p.m. on Thursday.
Angela’s on the Avenue is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday, and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every third Saturday of the month.
For more information, call 609-965-3890, email no1hungryinehc@yahoo.com, or visit no1hungryinehc.com.
Michelle Gladden is a freelance journalist and editor with over 25 years of professional experience. She was the founding executive director of a local arts support nonprofit and has served on various community boards and organizations.
