“The Food Bank of South Jersey has developed strong relationships with local farms and farm cooperatives here in the Garden State. We are heavily focused on purchasing food grown by our neighbors to help feed our neighbors. Our mission is focused on working toward eliminating food insecurity – it’s wonderful to work toward that goal while also being job creators for fellow New Jerseyans.”

 

For Lisa, being “of South Jersey” means being “gritty” – determined, resilient, and ready to make a difference.

After years in the for-profit food industry, Lisa made a deliberate move to the Food Bank of South Jersey, seeking more meaningful work. What she found was not just a change in mission, but a change in community.

“I came here to feel better about the work I was doing,” Lisa says. “Now, one year in, I’ve found that it’s not just the content of my work that’s changed – it’s the people I work with. The associates at the Food Bank have big hearts, and it shows in the way they work with one another, with agencies, and with vendors. Their positivity and compassion have made my work life – and my overall life – better.”

One of the aspects Lisa is most proud of is how the Food Bank is strengthening ties with local farms and cooperatives. By purchasing food grown by New Jersey neighbors to feed New Jersey neighbors, the mission goes beyond meals. It’s also about supporting local jobs and agriculture.

“Our focus is on eliminating food insecurity,” Lisa explains. “But we’re also creating opportunities and investing in our own state’s economy. That’s something I’m proud to be a part of.”

Turns out, finding the right mission comes with finding the right people, too.

 

 

– Lisa Murphy
Purchasing Manager
Food Bank of South Jersey

 

 

40 Years, 40 Stories