FirstEnergy Foundation Gives Grant to Project Self-Sufficiency for Food Pantry

Project Self-Sufficiency announced a $20,000 grant from the FirstEnergy Foundation to help alleviate food insecurity across Sussex and northern Warren counties. Food insecurity, or the economic and social condition of limited access to adequate food, is a rising concern for individuals and families across the country. While Sussex County, New Jersey, may be known for its many farms and access to fresh produce, hunger is a major concern for thousands of families in the northwestern corner of the state. In 2024, the year for which the most recent statistics are available, almost 14,000 people in Sussex County experienced food insecurity.

Project Self-Sufficiency has offered a food pantry in various forms since its inception in 1986, as food insecurity is often intertwined with a family’s inability to achieve economic self-sufficiency. As the need for access to food increased, the agency’s food pantry expanded. Former classrooms and office space were converted to dedicated food storage, while refrigerators and freezers were added to allow for a wider variety of items, including fresh produce and proteins. In 2025, the agency converted an old farmhouse on the campus to a market-style, Nourish to Flourish food pantry.

“We are grateful to receive funding to support Project Self-Sufficiency’s mission to bring nutritious food to local individuals and families who have been impacted by rising food prices, job insecurity, and a host of issues which are currently impacting their ability to put food on the table,” remarked Project Self-Sufficiency Chief Executive Officer Deborah Berry-Toon.“Support from the FirstEnergy Foundation will have a dramatic impact on families in our community.”

This grant is part of the FirstEnergy Foundation's largest investment in hunger relief to date, awarding $1.3 million to 25 New Jersey hunger-relief organizations that are expected to provide more than 3.8 million meals during Hunger Action Month, a national, September-long observance that raises awareness of food insecurity and encourages volunteerism, advocacy and giving. Jersey Central Power & Light (JCP&L), a subsidiary of FirstEnergy Corp., serves 1.2 million customers in 13 counties, including Sussex County. The grant will support Project Self-Sufficiency’s Nourish to Flourish food pantry, and its work connecting the community with nutritious food, fresh produce and everyday essentials across Sussex County.