On Friday, June 12, 2026, the Community FoodBank of New Jersey (CFBNJ) will host its first-ever Meal on a Mission: A Chef’s Tableside Experience at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City. This new culinary event will bring together renowned chefs, community leaders, and dedicated supporters for an unforgettable evening benefiting CFBNJ’s mission to end hunger.
Guests will enjoy a cocktail hour featuring culinary students and volunteers, followed by a curated four-course tableside dining experience prepared by premier local chefs and casino restaurant partners. The evening will also include a silent auction offering exclusive items and experiences, followed by a dessert reception.
All proceeds from Meal on a Mission will support CFBNJ’s work providing food for neighbors facing hunger in Atlantic, Cape May, and Cumberland Counties. CFBNJ is New Jersey’s largest anti-hunger, anti-poverty organization, providing food to more than 800 local food assistance organizations across 15 counties and connecting neighbors with resources that support long-term stability.
“Meal on a Mission is more than just a culinary experience, it’s an opportunity for our community to come together around the table to help ensure our neighbors have access to nutritious food,” said Elizabeth McCarthy, President & CEO of the Community FoodBank of New Jersey. “With South Jersey facing some of the highest rates of food insecurity in the state, events like this are critical in helping us provide meals to those who need them most.”
6abc Action News co-anchor Alicia Vitarelli will serve as the event emcee. Vitarelli, who joined the Action News team in 2010, brings more than a decade of broadcast journalism experience and a strong commitment to community engagement. Known for her coverage of major national events and her role on FYI Philly, she is passionate about highlighting organizations that make a difference. Her participation helps underscore the importance of Meal on a Mission and its impact on the community.
Participating chefs and food vendors will be from Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa, Golden Nugget Atlantic City, and Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City. More will be added in the coming weeks.
Event sponsors include:
-Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City – Host Sponsor
-The Casino Association of New Jersey – Culinary Visionary
-Ocean Casino Resort – Epicurean Sponsor
“The Casino Association of New Jersey is proud to continue the Casinos United Against Hunger Campaign to support our neighbors in need,” said George Goldhoff, President of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City and president, Casino Association of New Jersey. “‘Love All–Serve All’ is the foundational motto of Hard Rock International and a guiding principle of our partnership. Hard Rock’s commitment to social responsibility – reflected in our focus on zero hunger and advancing health and well-being in the communities we serve – is a powerful testament to our dedication. As a partner of CFBNJ, Atlantic City’s casinos will continue to play a vital role in driving meaningful impact, and that is why we are supporting the Community FoodBank of New Jersey’s Meal on a Mission event this June.”
Just one ticket to Meal on a Mission can help provide up to 1,350 pounds of fresh produce to South Jersey residents facing food insecurity. To purchase tickets or learn more about sponsorship opportunities, visit cfbnj.org/mealonamission.
