The Casino Association of New Jersey (CANJ) announced a significant contribution to holiday hunger relief, donating 1,200 turkeys to support the Community FoodBank of New Jersey’s (CFBNJ) annual Turkey Drive. This collective effort ensures that families across the state will be able to enjoy a Thanksgiving meal.
The donation was made possible through the collaboration of several leading Atlantic City resorts, including Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa, Caesars Atlantic City, Golden Nugget Atlantic City, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City, Ocean Casino Resort and Resorts Atlantic City. The turkeys are being delivered throughout the week.
This most recent donation is part of the ongoing Casinos United Against Hunger campaign, a year-long partnership launched by CANJ and CFBNJ. The Atlantic City casinos have collectively donated nearly $250,000 this year to support the CFBNJ’s mission, which includes initiatives like the Turkey Drive and volunteering at the CFBNJ’s Mobile Food Pantry in Ventnor City.
“Food insecurity affects far too many families in our state,” Mark Giannantonio, president of the Casino Association of New Jersey (CANJ) said. “Our casinos are proud to support the Community FoodBank of New Jersey’s Turkey Drive to ensure that families can enjoy Thanksgiving meals together.”
Elizabeth McCarthy, president & CEO of the Community FoodBank of New Jersey, emphasized the emotional and nutritional importance of the donation. “Food is so important – not just for nutrition – but for bringing families together,” she said. “We are grateful to community partners like the Casino Association of New Jersey for their generosity in this time of need.”
The support comes at a critical time, as the need for food assistance has risen sharply.
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State-wide Need: Nearly 1.1 million people in New Jersey are currently food insecure, including over 270,000 children.
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Local Impact: Atlantic County has one of the highest rates of food insecurity in the state at 13.3% overall (over 36,000 people) and 18.2% among children (more than 10,000 kids).
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Rising Rates: Food insecurity in New Jersey has risen 65% since the height of COVID-19 in 2020.
Overall, the CFBNJ distributed a total of 83,000 turkeys, roasters, and hams this holiday season.
