Mercer Street Friends

Mercer Street Friends' History

Founded in 1958 by members of the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers), Mercer Street Friends has a longstanding history of service rooted in Quaker principles. Located in Trenton, NJ, this organization has grown to address the critical needs of the community, focusing on food security, family support, and education. The Quaker values of simplicity, peace, integrity, community, equality, and stewardship guide Mercer Street Friends in its mission to nourish minds and bodies, and empower families and communities.

Mercer Street Friends' Services

Mercer Street Friends offers a comprehensive range of services designed to support food-insecure individuals, families, and students. Their programs include a robust Food Bank that distributes over 6 million meals annually through a network of more than 150 pantry partners. The Send Hunger Packing program ensures that food-insecure students receive weekend meals, while the Community Schools Initiative tackles non-academic barriers to student success. Additionally, they provide early childhood education through a no-cost Preschool program and Adult Basic Education to help individuals earn their New Jersey State Diploma.

Mercer Street Friends' Community Initiatives

Mercer Street Friends collaborates with various social and human service organizations, the Trenton School District, and medical health resources to maximize their impact. Their Healthy Families TIP Program and Parents As Teachers Program offer home visiting services to support families with young children. The Community Food Bags program provides 16 meals to families throughout Trenton and Mercer County. Additionally, the organization hosts the Students Change Hunger campaign, a friendly competition that encourages schools and youth groups to conduct food and fund drives, amplifying community involvement and support.

Mercer Street Friends' Educational Programs

Education is a cornerstone of Mercer Street Friends' mission. They offer a Preschool program providing high-quality early childhood education at no cost for children ages 3 to 5 residing in Trenton. For adults, they provide Basic Education programs to help individuals earn a New Jersey State Diploma, thus improving their employment opportunities and personal growth. The organization also manages the Community Schools Initiative, aimed at breaking down non-academic barriers that can impede student success, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to thrive academically and personally.

Mercer Street Friends' Volunteer and Giving Opportunities

Mercer Street Friends provides numerous ways for community members to get involved and support their mission. Volunteer opportunities are abundant, ranging from helping at the Food Bank to participating in events and programs. The organization also offers diverse giving options, including online donations, mail, gift matching, stocks and securities, planned giving, crowd funding, and in-kind donations. Their annual Leadership Awards Celebration honors individuals and organizations for their outstanding leadership, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose.