Every Atlantic City casino united this week as executives and employees traded their roles for volunteer service at the Community FoodBank of New Jersey’s (CFBNJ) mobile pantry in Ventnor City. The collaborative effort saw casino leaders distributing groceries and essentials to local residents, reinforcing the industry’s commitment to fighting food insecurity across the region.
The volunteer day, held on Nov. 19, is the latest action taken under the Casinos United Against Hunger Campaign, which launched in May. Approximately 25 volunteers from all Atlantic City casinos worked together to set up the mobile pantry and greet neighbors throughout the morning.
Mark Giannantonio, president of the Casino Association of New Jersey (CANJ) and president & CEO of Resorts Casino Hotel, highlighted the industry’s focus on community need.
“Atlantic City casinos are committed to addressing the issue of food insecurity that impacts so many families across New Jersey,” Giannantonio said. “Our partnership with the Community FoodBank of New Jersey gives Atlantic City casinos an opportunity to come together to provide meals to families throughout the state, and we look forward to finding ways to make a difference for our neighbors in need.”
Prominent executives, including Alan Greenstein of Bally’s, George Goldhoff of Hard Rock, Tom Pohlman of Golden Nugget, and Hugh Turner of Ocean Casino Resort, were pictured volunteering at the event.
Beyond their volunteer time, the Atlantic City casinos have collectively donated nearly $230,000 to support CFBNJ’s mission this year. This substantial contribution will enable CFBNJ to distribute more meals to families, particularly in high-impact areas.
Elizabeth McCarthy, president & CEO of CFBNJ, expressed gratitude for the ongoing partnership.
“Volunteering your time to help provide meals to those in need is more important than ever,” McCarthy said. “We are grateful to the Casino Association of New Jersey for their continued support and look forward to finding more ways to partner together to combat food insecurity in New Jersey.”
The collaboration comes at a critical time, as nearly 1.1 million people in New Jersey are food insecure, including over 270,000 children. Atlantic County is disproportionately affected, reporting one of the highest rates in the state at 13.3% overall (over 36,000 people), a number that includes more than 10,000 children.
CFBNJ notes that food insecurity in New Jersey has risen 65% since 2020. The need for assistance has continued to increase, most recently with a spike in people coming to food pantries for help during the recent government shutdown.
