#United States #Atlantic City #Casinos Unite Against Hunger #Community FoodBank of New Jersey

Casinos Unite Against Hunger: A Collaborative Effort

The Atlantic City casino industry has taken remarkable steps to combat food insecurity through its Casinos Unite Against Hunger initiative. This collaborative campaign, launched in May 2025 with the Community FoodBank of New Jersey (CFBNJ), has successfully raised nearly $400,000, translating into over 1.2 million meals for those in need across South Jersey.

A Milestone Event

On June 12, 2026, the campaign marked a significant milestone during the inaugural event titled Meal on a Mission: A Chef's Tableside Experience held at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. Attended by community leaders, renowned chefs, local businesses, and supporters, the event emphasized the collective commitment to addressing the serious issue of hunger in the region. George Goldhoff, the president of the Casino Association of New Jersey (CANJ), remarked on the powerful collaboration that has emerged to support families facing food insecurity. He stated, "This initiative demonstrates the significant impact we can make when we unite for a common cause."

Donations and Contributions

During the Meal on a Mission event, the Atlantic City casino industry came together to contribute approximately $120,000 to the CFBNJ. This impressive sum included a $50,000 donation from the CANJ and another $50,000 from the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, celebrating its eighth anniversary. This event was further supported by various sponsors including Caesars Entertainment and Borgata Hotel, Casino & Spa, showcasing a dedicated effort from multiple avenues of the local industry to combat hunger.

Ongoing Efforts

The Casinos Unite Against Hunger initiative is not just about financial donations; it has fostered active participation from casino employees who have volunteered in various CFBNJ initiatives and community outreach efforts. Notably, during the 2025 holiday season, the casinos also organized a mobile food pantry in Ventnor, which helped deliver 1,200 turkeys to families in need. Moving forward, Caesars Entertainment has pledged an additional $20,000 to support the CFBNJ, while the MGM Resorts Foundation has contributed $10,000.

Addressing Food Insecurity

Elizabeth McCarthy, president and CEO of the CFBNJ, expressed gratitude for the crucial support from organizations like CANJ that empower their mission to eliminate hunger in New Jersey. "Every day, countless individuals and families face tough decisions regarding their basic needs. The support from the casino industry plays a pivotal role in alleviating these challenges."

The CFBNJ stands as New Jersey's largest anti-hunger organization, supplying food to over 800 local food assistance agencies across 15 counties. This partnership highlights the important role that businesses can play in addressing significant social issues, ultimately leading to a stronger and more resilient community.

Conclusion

Overall, the Casinos Unite Against Hunger initiative exemplifies what can be achieved when a community collaborates for a common goal. The efforts showcased through events like the Meal on a Mission not only provide essential resources to those in need but also foster a sense of hope and unity within the region. As the campaign progresses, it continues to build momentum towards combating food insecurity, reflecting the commitment and heart of the Atlantic City casino industry and its partners in the fight against hunger.

For additional information on CANJ and its initiatives, please visit www.casinosnj.org.