Essex County Food Pantry Brings Hope to Struggling Single Mother

In Newark, the St. James Food Pantry is doing more than feeding families—it’s rebuilding lives. For Rebecca, a single mother of four and a domestic violence survivor, the pantry has been a lifeline during the hardest times. Working nights as a certified nursing assistant, she often struggles to make ends meet. But thanks to the pantry, her children never go to bed hungry. With donations and support from the Community Food Bank of New Jersey, St. James provides meat, pantry staples, and even special treats that bring joy to families like Rebecca’s. “You hold that chicken and you’re smiling,” she says, describing the relief of knowing dinner is secured. Vesta Godwin Clarke, who leads the pantry, sees their mission as a ministry of love and care—turning struggle into strength. For Rebecca, each meal served is a reminder that hope is real, and help is always near.