RED BANK – Now that Lunch Break is one step closer to reaching its $5 million goal for the Step Up to the Plate – The Capital Campaign for Lunch Break, the organization is announcing a $1 million challenge.
In August, an anonymous local philanthropist gave Lunch Break $1 million for the capital campaign and said, “I hope this donation inspires others to give and also step up to the plate.”
Inspire it did. Now within $1 million of reaching its goal, a group of local donors have pledged $500,000 to Lunch Break as a challenge grant. Every dollar donated since Oct. 1 and through Dec. 31, will be matched dollar for dollar up to $500,000.
“This challenge puts us one step closer, literally, to reaching our goal,” said Mark Brahney, president of the Lunch Break Board of Trustees. “The funds raised to-date have ensured the completion of Phase 1 and Phase 2. The remaining funds are for Phase 3, the purchase of additional property and a capital reserve/endowment fund to sustain Lunch Break for years to come.”
“Even during these economically stressed times the demand for Lunch Break’s services had grown,” said Gwendolyn Love, Lunch Break’s executive director. “Our current facilities were often at capacity. Our new building will expand our capabilities and continue Lunch Break’s legacy as one of Monmouth County’s most vital social service agencies.
“Lunch Break is at the dawn of a new day and a new way of providing services to individuals and families who need our help. We’ve almost completed our expansion and, thanks to the community, we will soon be able to offer a ‘client choice’ food pantry; house our clothing and Suited for Success programs; create a child-friendly reception area; increase the dining room capacity; add additional parking; and more,” Love said.
“For the past 31 years Lunch Break has been a grassroots organization supported by everyday people seeking to do good in their community. So, regardless of the amount, your donation is important to helping with the completion of the expansion,” she said. “With the challenge, your donations are doubled: $1 equals $2, $10 equals $20, $50 equals $100, and so on.
“At Lunch Break, they know that: First you help, then comes hope,” Love said. “Each and every day the staff and volunteers lovingly deposit Help and Hope all day into the hearts of our neighbors in need. They also know the friends of Lunch Break will come through; they always do.”
Those who would like to make gift or to learn more about the many giving opportunities are invited to contact the Lunch Break Development Office at 732-747-8577, ext. 3103, or donate online at www.lunchbreak.org.
With the exception of The Giving Tree, all gifts to Lunch Break are eligible for the $1 million challenge.
