While the main efforts of DRBC staff are centered around managing and protecting the shared interstate waters of the Delaware River Basin, they also care about helping out in our local communities. Twelve DRBC staff recently volunteered at the Mercer Street Friends Food Bank in Ewing Township, N.J., helping sort and pack nearly 100 boxes of food for distribution to hunger relief programs all throughout Mercer County, N.J. In addition to preparing bulk donations, staff also bagged/boxed over 1800 lbs. of food for the Food Bank's Send Hunger Packing program, which provides food to schools to give to their students who need.

The Mercer Street Friends Food Bank is the leader of the community's response to hunger, offering prevention programs and annually distributing over 3 million pounds of privately- and government-donated food to a network of more than 80 shelters, soup kitchens, and food pantries. In addition to running the food bank, Mercer Street Friends also offers a free preschool and many programs for youth, adults, and parents.

This was the fourth consecutive year DRBC staff have volunteered their time at the food bank. Staff enjoyed and appreciated the experience, learning about the invaluable work of Mercer Street Friends and how it is an essential partner in the community, dedicated to helping impoverished and at-risk families and individuals. During the holiday season and all throughout the year, DRBC staff are proud to do their part to help those in need.  

Huge thanks to everyone at the Food Bank for a great day!