Students Across Monmouth and Ocean Counties Rally to Fight Hunger Through “Students Change Hunger” Campaign

Neptune, NJ - Fulfill proudly celebrated the impact of its 19th Annual Students Change Hunger campaign, recognizing the outstanding efforts of local students, schools, and community partners during a virtual awards ceremony held on March 18.

This year, 25 schools from across Monmouth and Ocean Counties participated in the friendly competition, demonstrating extraordinary generosity and leadership in the fight against food insecurity. Together, students collected 27,592 pounds of food and $4,677 in donations, providing more than 37,000 meals to neighbors in need.

In addition, support from 11 corporate sponsors, led by longtime partner and SCH program creators Press Communications, raised $16,143, equating to over 48,000 meals. The 2025-2026 sponsors include A.J. Perri, All County Exteriors​, Bar Anticipation, Hutchins HVAC Inc., John Hill Insurance, New Jersey American Water, New Jersey Museum of Transportation, Nissan City of Red Bank, NJR Home Services, Ryser’s Landscape Supply, and Shrewsbury Volkswagen.

“At a time when more Monmouth and Ocean County families, seniors, and children are relying on food pantries, soup kitchens and other community food programs, every pound of food collected and every dollar raised matters,” said Triada Stampas, President and CEO of Fulfill. “This campaign shows us what’s possible when young people come together to care for their community.”

Top honors for the 2025–2026 campaign were awarded to Deal School (1^st Place), Ranney School (2nd Place), Millstone Middle School (3rd Place).

Additional schools were recognized through the campaign’s “Pound Club” levels, celebrating those that collected more than 1,000, 2,000, and 3,000 pounds of food.

Since its founding nearly two decades ago, Students Change Hunger has grown from a local holiday food drive into a statewide initiative, inspiring thousands of students to take action against hunger in their communities. The campaign continues to highlight the power of youth-driven service and the importance of community collaboration.

“Our students are not just collecting food. They’re building awareness, compassion, and a stronger community,” said Valerie Mahon, Community Engagement Specialist at Fulfill. “Their creativity and commitment help us provide food, services, and hope to families who rely on us.”

Fulfill will deliver awards and recognition plaques to participating schools in the coming weeks, and the top three schools will receive a special ice cream truck celebration in honor of their achievements.

For more information about Students Change Hunger or to get involved, visit Fulfill’s website.

About Fulfill
Fulfill, the food bank of Monmouth and Ocean Counties, has been dedicated to addressing hunger in the Jersey Shore community since 1984. As an active member of Feeding America, Fulfill proudly works with a network of nearly 300 partners, including soup kitchens, food pantries, and shelters to provide 1.3 million meals per month to area residents, families, children, seniors, and veterans in need. Committed to more than just food distribution, Fulfill also offers connections to affordable healthcare options, Medicaid, SNAP benefit assistance programs, and other services to help neighbors lead healthy and self-sufficient lives. To learn more or become involved, visit www.fulfillnj.org.