Winter 2023 Newsletter - Why We Exist

Why We Exist

This little cutie was entirely outfitted by the Dream Center... binky, blanket, booties, and all. That's what we're here for. To help hundreds of moms and dads who reach out to us when they have little or no supplies for their newborn. Every child deserves a warm blanket and warm clothing. 

True, but there are also some that believe, "God helps those who help themselves!" Did you know that phrase is nowhere to be found in the Bible? Instead, God says in Matthew 25:35-36, "For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me..." No strings attached. That's what we're all about. We exist to help break the vicious cycle of poverty in people's lives...from the inside out. To share God's unconditional love and grace.

All with the help of people like Lucille (bottom left), who fills her vehicle with our donations and takes them to one of the poorest counties in South Jersey. And the precious folks of the Senior Nutrition Program in Paulsboro (bottom right) who help distribute our groceries to the elderly who are trying to manage with increased food prices. And you! Thank you for helping to make all that we do possible.

 

National Park Outreach

We are so thankful for all the volunteers and donors who helped make our Grocery Outreach at the National Park School an extraordinary success! Our event would not have been complete without the continued support of Rastelli Foods who came to our rescue with 80 frozen turkeys at the last minute due to the turkey shortage, Zallie's Shoprite who donated 50 frozen apple pies, Heritage's, who donated 50 gift certificates for a gallon of milk, and Albert's Fresh Produce and Cassaday Farms who donated fresh produce. In addition to all the financial support we received through our Virtual Food Drive, we were also VERY honored to receive a $5000 donation at our event from the Ron Jaworski Foundation and Jaws Youth Playbook presented by Mrs. Liz Jaworski.

Pickleball Against Poverty Tournament

Poverty is a serious issue but raising awareness and funds about poverty doesn’t have to be! All are invited to the Total Turf Experience in Pitman on Saturday, March 25th for our Second Annual Pickleball Against Poverty Tournament fundraiser. This fun-filled, competitive, round robin event supports the struggling families we serve at the Dream Center. We're seeking players, volunteers, and sponsors. Brackets are Mixed Doubles, and Men's and Women's Doubles - Up to 3.0, 3.5, 4.0 and above - 18+, 45+, 60+. QR code has all the details. Spectators are welcome for free! Big shout out to some of our sponsors below.

 

News

Food Drive Record Numbers

The employees of Amazon HPH1 in West Deptford (bottom left) donated over 1600 pounds of food, and True North Church (right) donated over 3,000 pounds of food, which is a record number from one organization! Also, hosting awesome Food Drives on our behalf (below) was First Class Travel in Mullica Hill, The Princeton Bank, Paulsboro Refining Company, and Custom Building Products. Thank you!

 

We Love our New Refrigerator

Through the United Way of Gloucester County Live United Mini-grant, and a grant from the James S. Herr Family Foundation, we were able to purchase an awesome new commercial refrigerator. We are so thankful to them both for helping us put good quality produce and dairy items on the table for struggling families. 

 

Gift Card Grant from Macy's

Macy’s continues to overwhelm us with their thoughtfulness with a $1,000 gift card grant to purchase much-needed items for the Dream Center. We are grateful for Carmen for shopping for us and the awesome baby and household items she selected. They're perfect!

 

Wawa Financial Grant

Wawa did it again! They blessed us with an financial grant in support of our Food Assistance Program. We truly appreciate their partnership to help alleviate hunger in South Jersey. They have been a tremendous friend to the Dream Center for many years.

 

Gloucester County Chamber of Commerce Gift Card Drive

We are so thankful to Stacey, Janet, Linsey and all the Chamber Members who gave to the Gloucester County Chamber of Commerce Gift Card Drive. They made a single mom of a pre-teen boy VERY happy several days before Christmas, who was able to put presents under the tree because of their generosity.

 

The SJDC Joins in 52nd Habitation
The SJDC celebrates with the Gloucester County Habitat for Humanity for their 52nd home build for Kennetha Dixon. Her goal was to provide a safe, stable home for her daughter and young granddaughter...three generations under one roof! Here's the happy first-time homebuyer surrounded by groceries from the Dream Center.

 

Partner With Us

We would love for you to partner with us with a one-time or monthly gift of any amount.  Full details HERE.