Merck Selects Interfaith Food Pantry to Receive $25,000 Grant

Pharmaceutical Company Merck of Whitehouse Station has selected the Interfaith Food Pantry to receive a grant through the Merck NJ Neighbor of Choice program. The $25,000 grant will support our “Healthy Choices” program for this year.

 Healthy Choices focuses on helping IFP clients understand the important relationship between a nutritious diet and their overall health, and empowers them to make informed choices for their families.  Nutrition education for IFP clients is provided in a variety of ways and is coordinated with the community nurse’s health screening for hypertension, diabetes and cholesterol  which is offered  at the Pantry. Clients receive information on the relationship between diet and good health, and practical tips on how to incorporate healthy habits into their lifestyle. Every month new recipes are provided that include the items the we distribute and healthful ways to prepare them. Katy Galton, our nutrition educator is now offering food demonstrations prior to our distribution sessions in our teaching kitchen, and efforts are also made to increase the amount of nutrient-dense foods offered to Pantry clients, especially fresh fruits and vegetables, low-fat dairy products and whole grains.

 We encourage our donors to make healthy food choices when shopping on our behalf.

 For more information about our Healthy Choices program, contact Katy Galton, IFP Nutrition Educator at 973-538-8049 x216 or email katygalton@mcifp.org

Our first nutirtion class in the new building!