The Jersey Shore now faces its largest economic challenge since Superstorm Sandy, as the coronavirus pandemic and shutdown continue. 

 

Organizations, such as the Fulfill food bank of Monmouth and Ocean counties, work continuously behind the scenes to lessen the new hardships facing tens of thousands.

“It's so different than Sandy, the storm was over, and we cleaned up,” says Fulfill CEO Kim Guadagno.

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Even then, that cleanup took years. This current invisible disaster is said to be 10 times worse than Sandy, and this is only week five.

 

“We survive on restaurants’ hospitality, activities, and it's shut down, and as a result earlier than other areas in the state people are coming here looking for food,” says Guadagno.

The numbers are shocking, compared to this time last year, Fulfill has now served close to 400,000 more meals. People who have never used a food bank are now searching for help.

A new texting feature offered through Fulfill makes the task easier -- simply text the words "Find Food" to 888-918-2729, and the three closest pantries will display. 

At the same time, Fulfill continues its partnership with local restaurants, keeping the hungry fed, and the struggling backbone of the shore industry going.

“If I can keep small businesses like restaurants alive by paying them $5 for a box of food, we are going to pay a pantry in Freehold, to me it's worth it,” says Guadagno. “Business in business, that person isn't coming to my pantry using food, and we are feeding people hot warm meals. 

Fulfill is also looking for volunteers and donations. Click here for more information.