#United States #Newark #PSEG Foundation #NJ Nonprofits #Fight Hunger

PSEG Foundation Takes Action Against Food Insecurity

In light of National Hunger Action Month, the PSEG Foundation recently announced a significant initiative aimed at battling food insecurity in New Jersey and Long Island. This program will allocate $500,000 in funding to a first cohort of 80 nonprofit organizations that play a vital role in providing food and services to those in need.

The funding comes from the foundation’s Neighborhood Partners Program (NPP), an established effort designed to distribute over $1 million in grants throughout the year. Among the awardees are respected organizations such as:

• - Meals on Wheels: Over the past year, they have supplied more than 143,000 nutritious meals to homebound seniors in Mercer County.
• - St. Joseph’s Social Service Center: This organization aids residents of Elizabeth with food, clothing, and medications.
• - Covenant House in Newark: They provide vital resources including food, water, hygiene kits, as well as both immediate and lasting support to youth experiencing homelessness.

Calvin Ledford Jr., President of the PSEG Foundation, highlighted the ongoing struggle many residents face with basic living costs. He emphasized the foundation's commitment to enhancing the abilities of nonprofit partners to meet escalating demands. “Our community partners are on the front lines every day, helping meet the needs of families, senior citizens, and individuals,” he said, noting pride in the foundation's support for their important work.

Maria Spina, Senior Manager of Corporate Social Responsibility at the PSEG Foundation, added that tackling food insecurity requires robust partnerships. The NPP illustrates the critical collaboration between funders and the nonprofits dedicated to serving individuals and families daily. Spina expressed gratitude for the nonprofit organizations that tirelessly work to improve accessibility to food and essential resources, congratulating the year’s awardees for their impactful work.

Bernadette Murphy, Executive Director at St. Joseph’s Social Service Center, shared her thoughts as well, “When a family struggles to put food on the table, having a reliable place to turn can make a huge difference. PSEG Foundation's support helps sustain our food program and not only nourishes our neighbors with food but also provides support services delivered with love, dignity, and compassion.”

The Neighborhood Partners Program is part of the PSEG Foundation’s broader ongoing commitment to support the communities it serves. Since its inception in 2014, the NPP has allocated over $9.8 million to more than 825 organizations across New Jersey and Long Island, with nearly $8.9 million dedicated to initiatives within New Jersey.

PSEG employees are also actively involved in these initiatives. In 2025 alone, nearly 700 employees participated by volunteering at over 50 food drives, soup kitchens, and food pantry programs, including collaborations with prominent food banks throughout the state. This year, 350 employees have already committed more than 1,500 volunteer hours aiding 14 different organizations focused on addressing food insecurity.

To learn more about the PSEG Foundation, the Neighborhood Partners Program, and the complete list of awardees, visit their website.

To understand more about National Hunger Action Month and ways to contribute positively, follow this link for additional resources.