For more than four decades, Lunch Break has been a source of nourishment, support and hope for individuals and families throughout Monmouth County. What began 43 years ago as a soup kitchen in the basement of St. Thomas Episcopal Church in Red Bank has grown into a community resource offering food, clothing, wellness services, life skills programs and housing support.
Today, Lunch Break’s mission extends far beyond serving a hot meal. President and CEO Gwendolyn O. Love describes the organization’s philosophy as “help for today and hope for tomorrow.”
“We want it to be not a handout, but really a holistic hand up,” Love says.
That approach means addressing both immediate needs and the challenges that can prevent people from moving forward. Lunch Break’s pantry, for example, operates much like a grocery store. Guests shop alongside volunteers and select the foods their families need rather than receiving a preselected bag.
The model is designed to preserve choice and dignity. Guests are matched with volunteers who walk with them through the pantry, allowing them to select the foods that work best for their households. Many volunteers and guests return on the same day each week, creating familiar relationships that can turn a necessary errand into a welcoming experience.
The demand continues to grow. Pantry Manager Beth Sherrard says the pantry serves an average of 130 families a day, six days a week, representing approximately 380 people. The organization is also seeing about eight new clients each day.
“The need is not going away,” Sherrard says.
That need becomes even more apparent during the holidays. Last year, the pantry distributed approximately 2,600 turkeys for Thanksgiving, along with food to help complete holiday meals. Lunch Break also hosts Thanksgiving and Christmas meals and distributes turkeys and hams during the holiday season.
The organization provides clothing through Clara’s Closet, life skills programs, health and wellness services, housing assistance and student support. Guests can access showers and laundry services, while a mobile barbershop provides haircuts.
“We’re trying to really make sure that we’re supporting mind, body and soul through this difficult time for people,” Program Manager Shani Love says.
That holistic philosophy extends to children and families. Lunch Break offers programs such as its holiday toy initiative, backpack giveaways and a children’s cooking class. Wellness activities and community events create opportunities for families to receive practical support while also spending time together.
“We have people say, ‘I’m an artist. Could I do a class? Could I do this and that?’ Yes, you can,” Shani Love says, emphasizing that community members can contribute their talents as well as financial donations or physical goods.
That sense of dignity and connection is woven throughout the organization. Community partners provide medical, social service and wellness resources, while programs and activities help guests build relationships and feel connected. Lunch Break hosts community dinners and activities such as bingo and karaoke, creating a space where people can find connection during difficult seasons of life.
“I often feel that people come to Lunch Break because we know their names,” Gwendolyn Love says. “There’s community, and we say hello, and we say, ‘How’s your daughter?’”
Behind all of these services is a dedicated network of volunteers. Lunch Break has approximately 30 staff members but relies heavily on volunteers to keep its programs running. Many return week after week, building relationships with the people they serve.
“We really do rely on our volunteers to support the agency,” Gwendolyn Love says.
Those volunteers contribute in countless ways, from helping guests shop in the pantry and sorting clothing to assisting with special events. Some even arrive in costume for holiday activities, simply because they are willing to do whatever is needed.
“They ask for nothing but the opportunity to give back,” Gwendolyn Love says.
Sherrard herself began volunteering during the COVID-19 pandemic before joining the staff.
“Once you become a part of it, you’re totally hooked,” Sherrard says. “It touches your heart because you’re helping people in great need.”
As the holiday season approaches, community members can support Lunch Break in many ways, from donating food, clothing, toys and holiday essentials to volunteering their time or talents.
Shani Love encourages people to remember that there is no single way to make an impact. Someone might donate, volunteer, teach a class, organize a collection drive or simply share Lunch Break’s needs with others.
“I always say that investing in Lunch Break is an investment in the health, the happiness and the safety of your community,” Shani Love says. “We all want communities that are healthy, happy and safe.”
Give Back: Learn more about Lunch Break’s programs, volunteer opportunities, current needs and ways to donate at lunchbreak.org.