On Monday, the Camden County Commissioners joined Mayor Victor Carstarphen, state legislators, DoorDash, and the Cooper Foundation to announce the renewal of their partnership aimed at addressing food insecurity in Camden. The event took place during Hunger Action Month, which is observed each September to highlight the issue of hunger across the United States.
Commissioner Jennifer Fleisher stressed the importance of tackling food insecurity in Camden County. “Addressing food insecurity is a priority for Camden County, and partnerships like this one are critical,” said Commissioner Jennifer Fleisher. “We commend Mayor Carstarphen and DoorDash for their leadership and look forward to continuing to build a stronger Camden together.”
As part of its Community Credits program, DoorDash has given $10,000 in gift cards to support organizations fighting hunger and increasing access to food in Camden. This marks the third consecutive year of this collaboration, bringing total contributions through Community Credits to $35,000.
Mayor Victor Carstarphen described how these resources will help local groups serve more residents. “We are proud to partner with DoorDash for another year during Hunger Action Month,” said Mayor Victor Carstarphen. “This ongoing partnership marks an important milestone that reflects our shared commitment to fighting food insecurity in Camden. These Community Credits will empower local organizations and help them support more families in need in our community. Camden is resilient, and together we are strengthening our community, so no one goes hungry.”
The initiative allows nonprofit organizations to distribute DoorDash gift cards directly to residents facing barriers accessing food. The Cooper Foundation will be responsible for accepting DoorDash’s contribution and working with city officials on distribution.
Congressman Donald Norcross highlighted the value of joint efforts against hunger: “Combatting food insecurity in our communities requires commitment and teamwork,” said Congressman Donald Norcross. “This partnership shows that collaboration can change lives and ensure that no one in the Camden community is left behind. I applaud Mayor Carstarphen, DoorDash, and the local organizations for their work to broaden food access.”
Camden City Council President Angel Fuentes also thanked partners for supporting families: “Thank you to the Cooper Foundation and DoorDash for helping to fight hunger in Camden,” said Camden City Council President Angel Fuentes. “Way too many families in the City of Camden go without food every day. We look forward to strengthening this partnership as we work collectively to address food insecurity and equitable food access.”
Senator Nilsa Cruz-Perez addressed how important such partnerships are for residents’ well-being: “As local leaders, we must ensure that everyone in Camden has access to food and other resources they need to thrive,’ said Sen. Nilsa Cruz-Perez. “This partnership between the city, DoorDash, and local organizations will make an immediate impact for families in need.”
Food insecurity remains a significant concern across South Jersey; last year alone, over 23 million pounds of food were distributed by regional providers serving about 185,000 people monthly—including 67,000 children.
Assemblyman Bill Moen spoke on maintaining healthy communities: “Food insecurity is one of the most important priorities for us to maintain healthy communities throughout our legislative district,” said Assemblyman Bill Moen. “I want to applaud DoorDash for its commitment to fighting hunger and helping us collect as many resources as possible to combat this need in Camden City.”
Lisa Morina from Cooper Foundation pointed out links between nutrition access and health outcomes: “We know that food insecurity is a health issue as much as it is an economic one,” said Lisa Morina, senior vice president and chief philanthropy officer at the Cooper Foundation. “Without access to meals or proper nutrition, our communities and families cannot flourish. We are proud to support this partnership between the City of Camden and DoorDash and work together to improve the health of the Camden community.”
Ivan Garcia from DoorDash described how their program supports local needs: “We are grateful to partner with the City of Camden for a third year to help families access the food and essentials they need,” said Ivan Garcia, DoorDash Public Engagement Senior Manager. “At DoorDash, we are committed to fighting hunger in local communities, and our Community Credits program helps local leaders and organizations broaden their reach and help more people in need in their communities. We look forward to our continued collaboration with the City of Camden and local nonprofit partners.”
