The mission of Lunch Break is to assist, in an atmosphere of dignity and concern, those members of our community, who for whatever reason, find themselves unable to provide adequately, for themselves and their families. In the twenty years since Lunch Break was founded as Monmouth County's first "soup kitchen", it has become one of Red Bank's most important social service agencies.

Description:
The clients of Lunch Break are drawn primarily from the surrounding community, though others in neighboring communities also benefit from program offerings. Most clients are self-identified, although many come through social service agency referrals. Welfare Reform and escalating food stamp restrictions have placed increased demands on Lunch Break's resources.

A 20-member Board of Trustees oversees the operations of more than 400 volunteers and three paid staff members. With the exception of the small paid staff, the work of Lunch Break is made possible through the efforts of a large pool of volunteers who donate their time, talents, and resources.

Individuals assist daily in the acquisition, preparation, and serving of food contributed by local merchants and distributors.
Religious and commercial organizations contribute financial support and help coordinate volunteer activities.
Local professionals donate their expertise, providing legal, organizational, and technical services, as well as hands -on labor.
Monetary gifts, food donations, and clothing contributions are essential to Lunch Break's continued service to the community.

History:
Inspired by a Community's Concern

In January 1983 thirty-five people gathered at the Friends Meeting House in Shrewsbury, NJ, to discuss the issue of hunger in Monmouth County. During the next three months, these people formed the nucleus of individuals, religious organizations and business with a concern for helping those in the community who were finding it difficult to provide the bare necessities for themselves and their families.

Galvanized into action, the group began to raise funds and recruit volunteers.

In March 1983, Lunch Break began by providing free hot lunches from the basement of St. Thomas Episcopal Church in Red Bank. In 1985, Lunch Break moved to the Masonic Temple on Bergen Place and expanded its services to include the provision of groceries to families.

Community demand for services quickly increased beyond the capacity of the Temple, and Lunch Break leaders began to investigate the construction of a permanent, independent facility. In 1986, through the combined efforts of many contributors and a large grant from the State of New Jersey, Lunch Break opened the doors of its current facility at 121 Drs. James Parker Blvd. (formerly West Bergen Place)

Contact person: Gwen Love, Executive Director

Address:

121 Dr. James Parker Blvd. Red Bank, NJ 07701 (See a map)