Community Corner

Good News In Essex County: Lifesavers + Free Food Fridges + Passover Meals

New Jersey is filled with humor, inspiration and kindness. Here are seven stories to make you smile from Essex County.

Local nonprofit United Community Corporation unveils its latest free community refrigerator in Essex County, New Jersey.
Local nonprofit United Community Corporation unveils its latest free community refrigerator in Essex County, New Jersey. (United Community Corporation)

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — Essex County can be a stressful place to live. But it’s also filled with humor, inspiration and kindness. Let’s focus on that second part. Take a look at some recent good news stories in Essex County below (click the headlines to read).

'Free Refrigerators' Are Easing Hunger Across This North Jersey City

The fridges are open all day and night. They're stocked with items like milk, juice, fruits and veggies – all available at no cost.

Find out what's happening in Livingstonfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

12 Worthy Fundraisers To Attend In Essex County: 2026 Events

Participants can get reduced admission to the Turtle Back Zoo, Codey Arena and minigolf at the South Mountain Rec Complex.

Find out what's happening in Livingstonfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

NJ Volunteers Deliver Passover Meals To Holocaust Survivors, Seniors

Volunteers delivered holiday meals throughout North Jersey. A Model Seder event also inspired some holiday camaraderie.

Essex County Students Learn Plumbing Repair Skills At Their High School

"More young people — especially Gen Z — are recognizing the advantages of a career in trades."

North Jersey Town Will Celebrate Arbor Day 2026: Free Saplings, Tree Planting

Love trees? Celebrate Arbor Day at two upcoming local events.

Essex County Teens Take ‘Unforgettable’ Journey Through Italy

These North Jersey students had an immersive experience that brought language, history and culture vividly to life.

These NJ Parents Saved Their Kids' Lives With Kidney Donations

VIDEO: Dozens of kidney recipients, donors, family members and doctors had a heartwarming reunion at a North Jersey hospital.

Dozens of organ recipients, donors and their families recently celebrated their 25-year “kidneyversaries” at a hospital in Essex County, New Jersey. (Photo: RWJBarnabas Health)

Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.