FirstEnergy Foundation Pledges $1.3 Million to Combat New Jersey Hunger

The funding arrives during Hunger Action Month, a period dedicated to addressing the persistent gaps in food access. Feeding America data indicates that approximately 1.2 million New Jerseyans—nearly 13% of the population—struggled with food insecurity in 2024, a demographic that includes one in six children. The grants, which range from $5,000 to $250,000, target organizations ranging from the Community FoodBank of New Jersey to smaller, local pantries like A Need We Feed and The Helping Hand Food Pantry.

Doug Mokoid, president of Jersey Central Power & Light, emphasized that financial support is only one component of the initiative. Beyond the capital infusion, the company leverages a Volunteer Time Off program to integrate its workforce into the day-to-day operations of these nonprofits. In 2025 alone, employees contributed roughly 28,500 hours of service across the company’s regional footprint. For organizations like Project Self-Sufficiency, which serves Sussex County, this combination of funding and manpower provides a critical buffer against rising operational costs. The current $1.3 million allocation is part of a broader $5 million regional strategy covering six states and the District of Columbia.