As the summer season draws to a close, Fisherman’s Mark Social Services proudly celebrates a season filled with vital community programs—Back to School Supplies, the Farmstand, and Feeding Local Youth (FLY). These initiatives have been crucial in supporting families and children throughout Lambertville and the surrounding areas. Each program embodies Fisherman’s Mark’s mission to strengthen the community through responsive programs and services that promote stability, health, and education, advocating for positive change in the lives of their neighbors and their families.

 

“These programs are more than just services—they’re lifelines for many families in our community,” said Jennifer Williford, Executive Director of Fisherman’s Mark.

 

The Back to School Supplies Program distributed nearly 200 backpacks filled with essential school supplies to children in need. “It was heartening to see the continuous flow of donations, especially through our Amazon wish list and contributions from community partners like River Valley Realty and the Lambertville American Legion,” said Nick Halladay, Program Manager. The program allows children to start the school year on equal footing with their peers, fostering a sense of pride and readiness. “Kids can be status-conscious and peer-pressure-driven, so it’s important to help provide a level playing field for them,” Halladay added.

 

The Farmstand Program operated every Wednesday from June to August, offering program participants fresh, locally sourced produce. “We provide everything from potatoes and onions to berries and greens, thanks to our partners at Carversville Farms, Rolling Harvest, and America’s Grow A Row,” said Ricardo Zapata, Operations Manager. Participants responded enthusiastically, often prioritizing fresh produce over regular staple items. “The Farmstand not only promotes our philosophy of a free market but also brings the community together. We’ve seen a significant increase in donations of vegetables grown in residents’ gardens, helping us reduce waste and support our neighbors,” Zapata said.

 

The Feeding Local Youth (FLY) Program continued to be a critical resource for children who rely on free or reduced-price school lunches during the academic year. Throughout the summer, Fisherman’s Mark provided weekly lunches to ensure these children had access to nutritious meals. “The FLY program fills a critical gap for families during the summer months,” Halladay explained. The initiative helped alleviate financial strain on families and ensured that no child went hungry when school was out.

“Summer brings out the best in our community. From ensuring children receive lunches and fully loaded backpacks to start school to the delicious produce donated for our Farmstand, these programs embody ‘neighbors helping neighbors’. Our summer programs not only provide essential support, but they also create moments of joy,” Williford said.

 

About Fisherman’s Mark Social Services:
Fisherman’s Mark Social Services is a nonprofit organization based in Lambertville, NJ, dedicated to providing essential services, food support, and educational programs to individuals and families in need. With a mission to strengthen the community through responsive programs and services that promote stability, health, and education, Fisherman’s Mark is an advocate for positive change in the lives of its neighbors and their families. Learn more at www.fishermansmark.org.