Greater Morris Food Pantry Leader Earns Lifetime Achievement Award

Carolyn Lake, executive director of the Interfaith Food Pantry Network, was recognized for her decades of service fighting food insecurity.

By Jack Slocum, Patch Staff

Oct 15, 2026 3:40 PM EDT

Carolyn Lake, executive director of the Interfaith Food Pantry Network (IFPN), recently received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Knights of Columbus George Washington Council 359 in Morristown. (Carol Stavraka)

MORRIS PLAINS, NJ — A Morris County nonprofit leader who has spent decades helping families facing food insecurity has been recognized for her contributions to the community.

The award recognizes Lake's years of service, leadership and efforts to combat hunger throughout Morris County.

Under Lake's leadership, the nonprofit has expanded its ability to serve local families, launched new programs and partnerships, and strengthened its network of volunteers, donors and community organizations.

"Though this award has my name on it, our impact is made possible by many others, including my staff, volunteers, donors and community partners, including the Knights," Lake said. "We're so grateful for our community."

The organization has become a major resource for Morris County residents struggling to put food on the table.

In 2025 alone, IFPN distributed more than 2.4 million pounds of food, equivalent to approximately 2 million meals, during 42,600 household visits to its food pantries and mobile network partners.

Lake wasn't the only community member recognized by the Knights of Columbus.

Bill Kostyak was named Knight of the Year for his service to several civic and nonprofit organizations, including IFPN. The honor recognizes his commitment to the organization's principles of charity, unity, and fraternity.

Founded in 1898, the Morristown-based Knights of Columbus George Washington Council 359 supports numerous local and national charitable causes, contributing more than $50,000 annually.

Lake thanked the council for its continued generosity and support of IFPN's mission to address hunger throughout Morris County.

Residents interested in learning more about the Interfaith Food Pantry Network or supporting its efforts can visit mcifp.org or text Hunger to 44834 to donate.