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Joel Katz

Community Food Bank of NJ’s 24 Hour Pack-A-Thon This Week

Author Joel Katz
Community Food Bank of New Jersey operations in Hillside, New Jersey.

“Hunger doesn’t sleep, so neither will we!” That’s the slogan of The Community Food Bank of New Jersey’s 4th Annual 24-Hour Pack-a-Thon. It’s also “Volunteer Appreciation Month” and they’re always looking for people like you to lend a hand.

The Community Food Bank of New Jersey was started by Kathleen DiChiara “in the back of her station wagon in 1975. In 1982, she established CFBNJ as a nonprofit corporation with a staff of five in Newark. Over the years, the expansion to two warehouses and a fleet of trucks assisted in distributing food and groceries.”

In 2024, thanks to the Community Food Bank of New Jersey, more than 90 million meals are served each year. They also provide wrap-around services such as job training, SNAP outreach, nutrition education, and hygiene product distribution. Their huge location in Hillside, New Jersey helps to feed those in need.

Interview with Community Food Bank’s Matt Filik

We spoke with Matt Filik, the Vice Chair of CFBNJ’s Emerging Leaders Board, they’re hosting the Community Food Bank of New Jersey’s 3rd Annual 24-Hour Pack-a-Thon.

Matt explained what the Pack-A-Thon is all about, “For 24 hours we really are in the warehouse packing boxes non-stop. To give you an idea of the scale, last year’s Pack-A-Thon we hosted almost 570 volunteers, and we packed over 180,000 pounds of food in that 24-hour period. We really get a lot done and we couldn’t do it without some of our partners. If you can come out and volunteer we’d love to have everybody who’s willing at our warehouse in Hillside, New Jersey this weekend.”

They have a lot of spots open for what Matt thinks is the most exciting shift, Friday overnight into Saturday. You can go to the food bank any day, this is the only time of the year that you can be in the warehouse overnight.

Check out our conversation with Matt here:

The event’s tagline is “Hunger doesn’t sleep, so neither will we!”

Pack-a-Thon is hosted by CFBNJ’s Emerging Leaders Board to kick off Volunteer Appreciation Month during April.

The volunteers are the backbone of CFBNJ, and make a lasting impact year-round. They pack boxes for vulnerable seniors, create Family Packs for weekends when kids miss school meals, and ensure no child goes to bed hungry through their Kids Cafe program.

They need volunteers, as the mission would not be possible without the dedication of them. Sign up at CFBNJ.org/packathon

This year’s Pack-a-Thon will be from 9 am on Friday, April 5, 2024 until 9 am on Saturday, April 6, 2024 at CFBNJ’s Hillside warehouse.

 

Community Food Bank of New Jersey Pack-A-Thon logo

Visit cfbnj.org/packathon to register for a shift. The Community FoodBank of NJ is at 31 Evans Terminal Road, Hillside, NJ, 07205.

6 Go-To Meals for Adults Who Eat Like Children

Ever catch yourself secretly craving those comfort foods from your childhood? Eating habits are a fundamental aspect of our daily lives, reflecting our culture, upbringing, and personal preferences. It’s natural for children to have unique and sometimes unconventional eating habits. But it’s interesting to know that there are adults who proudly embrace eating like children. Gravitating towards what some might call “childish meals.” These people, unapologetically, opt for the comforting and familiar flavors of childhood, turning to dishes that might make a Michelin-star chef raise an eyebrow.

One reason adults may adopt childlike eating habits is the comfort of familiarity. Many of us have fond memories of childhood meals and snacks, and for some, replicating these flavors can provide a sense of nostalgia and security. Whether indulging in a favorite cereal or enjoying a classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich, these comfort foods can offer a brief escape from the complexities of adult life.

Childish meals are straightforward and hassle-free

In times of stress or challenges, these dishes offer a sense of security and ease, like a cozy blanket for the palate. The preparation and consumption of childish meals are straightforward and hassle-free.

After a demanding day, adults may go for dishes that require minimal effort and decision-making. Adulting can be overwhelming at times, with its responsibilities, stressors, and expectations. Eating like a child can serve as a temporary escape from these pressures. It’s a way to rebel against the constraints of adulthood, if only for a moment. In a world that often demands seriousness and discipline, indulging in playful and carefree eating can be a form of self-care.

Shared sense of nostalgia

Interestingly, eating like a child can also be a social activity. It might serve as a bonding experience among friends or family members, creating a shared sense of nostalgia. This behavior can be especially prevalent at themed parties, where adults gather to relive their childhoods through food and games.

Food preferences are highly subjective. Some adults simply enjoy the taste and texture of these childhood dishes, regardless of any deeper motivations. Personal taste plays a significant role in meal choices.

Dishes like peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, mac ‘n’ cheese, or chicken tenders offer comfort, memories, and a connection to the past. So, when you see someone enjoying their favorite childhood meal, remember it’s more than just food. It’s a reminder that simple joys are often the best.

Take a look at these go-to meals for adults who eat like children.

  • Macaroni and Cheese

    Gooey, cheesy, and served with a side of warm nostalgia, mac ‘n’ cheese has an enduring appeal for many adults. Its simplicity and comfort make it a beloved choice among those who eat like children. Plus, it’s easy to make or dump out of a box into a pot.

    American creamy macaroni and cheese pasta

    OlgaMiltsova/ Getty Images

  • Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwiches:

    The classic combination of creamy peanut butter and sweet jelly or jam between two slices of bread is a timeless favorite. It’s a simple pleasure that resonates with adults seeking a taste of their carefree days. A sweet and nutty symphony that satisfies the kid in you with refined taste.

    Homemade Crustless Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich with Chips

    bhofack2/ Getty Images

  • Chicken Tenders and Fries

    Crispy chicken tenders paired with seasoned fries provide a satisfying and familiar meal. Their widespread availability makes them a reliable choice for those moments when you’re not sure what to order. This childhood classic still holds a special place in the hearts (and palates) of adults who appreciate its uncomplicated goodness.

    Homemade Crispy Chicken Tenders and French Fries on a white plate, side view.

    Liudmyla Chuhunova/ Getty Images

  • Sloppy Joe

    Sloppy Joe’s are messy and fun to eat. An explosion of ground beef, onions, peppers, and a tangy tomato sauce that’s so messy, you’ll need a bib (or a sense of adventure). Enjoy it piled high on a fresh brioche bun, and embrace the chaos as you bite into this wild and wonderfully messy delight.

    Salsa Sloppy Joe

    chas53/ Getty Images

  • Cereal and Milk

    Many adults grew up eating cereal as a staple breakfast or snack. It brings back fond memories of childhood mornings and simple, carefree times. Cereal is incredibly convenient. It requires minimal preparation too. Just pour it into a bowl, add milk, and you’re good to go. This makes it an attractive option for busy adults. And it comes in a wide range of flavors and types, from sugary classics to healthier options.

    Young beautiful woman in morning bed at home. Eating breakfast chocolate cereal bowl with milk. Enjoying eating tasty yummy food for morning breakfast.

    Vlad Dmytrenko/ Getty Images

  • Mini Pizza Bagels

    Mini pizza bagels often bring back fond memories of childhood lunches or after-school snacks. Many adults have a nostalgic attachment to them, making them a comforting choice. The combination of soft bagels, savory sauce, gooey cheese, and toppings provides a delightful mix of textures and flavors that appeal to a wide range of tastes.

    Frozen Mini PIzza Bagels with Cheese and Pepperoni

    bhofack2/ Getty Images

 

Joel Katz is the Morning Show Personality, Assistant Program Director, Podcast Host, Voiceover artist, audio producer, and Digital Content Writer for Magic 98.3. Joel has been working in New Jersey radio since college and started at Magic in 2002 as the Morning Show Host, “I can’t think of another place where I’d fit more perfectly; it’s just a great company with awesome people.” Joel is married to Kathleen, his elementary school sweetheart (they were each other’s first dates at age 9), shares a birthday with his oldest son, Ty, and has twins, Kiera and Liam. Joel runs at least 3.1 miles every day and enjoys playing basketball, doing laundry, saving his turn signal for when he really needs it, kissing dogs through a fence, using coasters, making that cool noise by rubbing his fingers on balloons, and chasing after ping pong balls on a windy cruise ship.

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