Mayor Nicholas Sacco, Police Chief Robert Farley, and officers from the North Bergen Police Department visited ShopRite in Columbia Park to support the store’s “Help Bag Hunger” project on Thursday, Sep. 12.

 

“Help Bag Hunger” is a component of ShopRite’s yearly Partners in Caring program, aimed at combating hunger in nearby communities. Founded in 1999, the program is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, complete with a cake and treats.

 

Numerous local and national vendors donate items for sale during the initiative, with all profits going toward local residents in need. Last year the program raised about $5,600 in North Bergen’s Columbia Park location at 2147 Kennedy Blvd. The proceeds are donated to charities and food banks in North Bergen.

 

Mayor Sacco takes part in the initiative every September during National Hunger Action Month. Store Manager Manny Martinez coordinated the event and expressed his appreciation for the mayor and administration’s continuing support.

 

The store holds various other events and drives at this time of year. On Thursday, Sep. 12 from 3 to 6 p.m. they present Customer Appreciation Day, with free vendor samplings, tastings, and raffles. On Friday, Sep. 13 they are sponsoring an early start to Hispanic Heritage Month with numerous activities in the parking lot.