Community Food Bank to Hold Casino Employee Food Distribution

Friday 17th April 2020

Even though the number of cases of COVID-19 in South Jersey remain far below those reported in the northern part of the state, the impact of the pandemic and the closing of many businesses in Atlantic County has been truly devastating.

The American Gaming Association has estimated that a shutdown of just two months for the state's nine casinos will spell a loss of $1.1 billion in economic activity and has left nearly 33,300 people in the state without a job.

The need for the most basic help is dire. Local people are asking for help feeding their families.

The Community Food Bank of New Jersey is reporting a 60% increase at their on-site pantry in Egg Harbor Township and the tripling of the number of emergency food boxes being distributed on the average day.

To help with this increased demand for food, Community Food Bank of New Jersey and Unite Here Local 54 is holding a Casino Employee Food Distribution day from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday, April 22 in the parking lot at the Harbor Square Mall, formally Shore Mall, in Egg Harbor Township.

For the safety of all involved, this will be a drive-thru event. The Community Food Bank of New Jersey asks that casino employees clear the trunks of their vehicles to make room for pre-packaged boxes.

Here are ways you can help those in need of food in South Jersey, through the Community Food Bank of New Jersey: