By Sarah Fertsch
South Jersey is home to many incredible nonprofit organizations making a difference in our communities. Supporting these groups can bring joy to your neighbors and make the season brighter for all. Here are 10 nonprofits you should know about and how you can lend a hand:
- Community FoodBank of New Jersey – Egg Harbor Township
The Community FoodBank of New Jersey is a vital resource in the fight against hunger, providing millions of meals annually to individuals and families in need. Partnering with food pantries, soup kitchens and schools, they distribute food and supplies while also offering programs like nutrition education and workforce training to combat food insecurity at its roots.
How to Help:
– Donate non-perishable food items.
– Volunteer to sort and distribute donations.
– Make a financial contribution online.
See: https://cfbnj.org
- CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) of Atlantic and Cape May Counties – Somers Point
CASA recruits and trains volunteers to advocate for children in foster care, ensuring they have a stable presence in their lives and that their needs are met in court proceedings. Their mission is to provide a voice for these vulnerable children and work towards finding them safe, permanent homes.
How to Help:
– Volunteer as a child advocate.
– Sponsor a child’s holiday gift wish list.
– Donate to support training programs for volunteers.
See: https://casaacc.org
- Atlantic City Rescue Mission – Atlantic City
The Atlantic City Rescue Mission serves individuals experiencing homelessness by offering emergency shelter, nutritious meals and comprehensive support services. They help clients rebuild their lives through job training, addiction recovery programs and spiritual guidance.
How to Help:
– Donate warm clothing and blankets.
– Volunteer to serve holiday meals.
– Contribute to their year-end giving campaign.
See: https://acrescuemission.org
- Humane Society of Ocean City – Ocean City
The Humane Society is dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming animals in need. They provide essential services like spay/neuter programs, vaccinations and adoption events to ensure the welfare of pets and the people who love them.
How to Help:
– Adopt or foster a pet.
– Donate pet food, toys or bedding.
– Volunteer your time at the shelter.
See: https://hsocnj.com
- Jewish Family Service of Atlantic & Cape May Counties – Margate
JFS offers a lifeline to individuals and families through a wide range of services, including mental health counseling, food assistance, job placement and senior care. Their holistic approach strengthens the community by addressing immediate and long-term needs.
How to Help:
– Contribute to their food pantry.
– Sponsor a family’s holiday gifts.
– Volunteer to help with holiday programs.
See: https://www.jfsatlantic.org/
- HERO Campaign for Designated Drivers – Somers Point
The HERO Campaign honors the memory of Ensign John R. Elliott by promoting safe and sober driving. Their mission is to end drunk driving through education, community events and the celebration of designated drivers as heroes who save lives.
How to Help:
– Make a pledge to be a designated driver.
– Donate to support their awareness programs.
– Spread their message on social media.
See: https://www.herocampaign.org
- Covenant House New Jersey – Atlantic City
Covenant House provides shelter, support and life skills training to homeless and at-risk youth. Their comprehensive approach empowers young people to overcome trauma, find stability and achieve self-sufficiency, ensuring they have a brighter future.
How to Help:
– Donate warm winter clothing or toiletries.
– Volunteer at the shelter or mentor a young person.
– Support their fundraising initiatives.
See: https://covenanthousenj.org
- Heart of Surfing – Multiple Towns
Heart of Surfing is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that offers year-round recreational opportunities for families with autism or related disabilities at no cost to the participants. In the warmer months, primary events include adaptive surfing and skateboarding. In the cooler months, Heart of Surfing offers sensory-friendly roller skating, ice skating, visits to the waterpark, trampoline park, train rides with Santa and many more special holiday events. Heart of Surfing was formed in 2014 and is 100% volunteer driven.
How to Help:
– Donate to the organization.
– Volunteer at an event.
– Follow them on social media.
See: https://www.heartofsurfing.org
- Mud Girls Studios – Atlantic City
MudGirls Studios transforms the lives of women facing adversity by offering them training, employment and a pathway out of poverty. By creating ceramics, women are empowered and equipped to overcome adversity.
How to Help:
– Host a fundraising event.
– Commission commemorative pieces.
– Purchase clay art.
See: https://www.mudgirlsstudios.org
- Leadership Studio – Atlantic City
This organization’s mission is to elevate the physical and mental well-being of the community through yoga, leadership development and education.This nonprofit provides support for a number of disadvantaged groups, including single mothers and recovering addicts.
How to Help:
– Make a monetary donation.
– Volunteer.
– Contribute to their holiday toy drive.
See: http://www.leadershipstudioac.com
South Jersey nonprofits work tirelessly to uplift our community. This holiday season, consider sharing your time, resources, or skills to help them continue their vital missions. Together, we can make a difference.
