Bridgewater, NJ: 7.25.26 — The Food Bank Network of Somerset County invites the community to its 4th Annual Fall Harvest Dinner on Thursday, November 12, 2026, at Bridgewater Manor, for an evening celebrating compassion, community, and the thousands of neighbors whose lives are changed through the Food Bank's services every day.

As food insecurity continues to rise throughout Somerset County, the Food Bank is experiencing one of the greatest periods of growth in its history. In 2026 alone, client demand has increased significantly, with more than 37,955 client visits and over 2.3 million pounds of food distributed to individuals, families, seniors, veterans, and children throughout Somerset County.

Proceeds from the Fall Harvest Dinner will directly support the Food Bank's general food assistance operations, including its client-choice pantry, mobile food distributions, Weekend Backpack Program, senior nutrition initiatives, and wrap-around services that connect families with healthcare, SNAP enrollment, employment resources, and other critical assistance.

A Program That Brings Hunger to Focus

The evening's program will feature a powerful presentation illustrating the hidden realities of food insecurity in Somerset County. Through compelling storytelling, guests will gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by seniors living on fixed incomes, families struggling through uncertain times, and children who may return home on Friday to an empty refrigerator—only to rely on the Food Bank's Weekend Backpack Program to ensure they have nutritious meals until returning to school Monday morning.

The presentation will also recognize the extraordinary commitment of the hundreds of volunteers whose compassion fuels the organization's mission every day. From packing Weekend Backpack bags and sorting food donations to stocking pantry shelves and serving clients with dignity, volunteers contribute thousands of hours annually to ensure that no neighbor faces hunger alone.

"Our community continues to respond with incredible generosity," said Steve Katz, Executive Director.  "Every meal served, every backpack packed, and every family welcomed into our pantry is possible because our volunteers, donors, sponsors, and community partners choose to stand with us. Together, we are providing more than food—we are providing hope."

Event Information

Fall Harvest Dinner

Date: Thursday, November 12, 2026

Time: 5:30 PM – 9:00 PM

Location: Bridgewater Manor
1251 Route 202/206
Bridgewater, NJ

Individual tickets begin at $225, with corporate sponsorships and table packages available. Registration closes Friday, October 30, 2026.

Guests will enjoy:

Live entertainment featuring Somerset County's own Tommy Strazza

Cocktail reception

Signature Wine Pull

Silent and Live Auctions

Cash Raffle

Inspiring client and volunteer stories

Recognition of community partners and supporters

Every dollar raised will help ensure that neighbors facing hunger receive nutritious food and compassionate support throughout the coming year.

For tickets, sponsorship opportunities, or event information, visit www.somersetfoodbank.org.

About The Food Bank Network of Somerset County

Founded in 1981, The Food Bank Network of Somerset County provides food and other basic human needs to those less fortunate in our community in a manner that recognizes and advances self-worth and human dignity.

Operating from its Bridgewater warehouse and a network of satellite pantry locations, the Food Bank serves thousands of Somerset County residents each year through emergency food assistance, mobile food distributions, the Weekend Backpack Program, senior nutrition support, and wrap-around services that help individuals and families move toward greater stability and self-sufficiency.

MEDIA CONTACT

Lisa Marie Arieno
Director of Development & Group Volunteer Programming

The Food Bank Network of Somerset County

Email: lisamarie@somersetfoodbank.org

Cell: 848-379-9023