Our Lady of Peace Sandwich Ministry: A Community Effort to Combat Hunger

NEW PROVIDENCE, NJ - The Our Lady of Peace Sandwich Ministry in New Providence exemplifies community service, uniting volunteers to prepare and distribute sandwiches to those in need. Every week, this dedicated group assembles hundreds of sandwiches, delivering them to various local charities and soup kitchens.

A Weekly Routine with a Big Impact

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Each week, volunteers gather to make sandwiches, often consisting of bologna and cheese, peanut butter and jelly, and occasionally salami and cheese. The ministry also receives bread donations from local organizations, making it a true community effort. On average, around 600 sandwiches are made, sometimes reaching over 1,000 thanks to additional donations.

Distribution to Local Charities

The sandwiches are distributed to several local organizations, including St. John's Soup Kitchen in Newark, St. Joseph's in Elizabeth, and the Salvation Army in Plainfield. Additionally, the ministry supports other local churches and food pantries such as SHIP (Summit Helping Its People), Bridges and the LINC Program, ensuring that the food reaches those who need it most.

Volunteers: The Heart of the Ministry

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Volunteers are the backbone of this ministry. Many have been involved since its inception, starting with individuals and families making sandwiches at home during the pandemic. Today, the ministry operates more efficiently, with a well-organized system for making and distributing the sandwiches.

The Importance of Community Support

The ministry has seen tremendous support from the community, especially during the holidays when the need for volunteers and donations is high. However, the need for support continues year-round. The Sandwich Ministry operates 52 weeks a year, providing much-needed food and support to local communities, said Maggie Reilly, a Sandwich Ministry leader.

How You Can Help

The Sandwich Ministry welcomes volunteers of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you can help make sandwiches, donate supplies, or contribute financially, every bit helps. Donations of fruit, non-perishable items, and snacks are also appreciated. If you're interested in contributing, you can drop off items at Our Lady of Peace at 111 South St., New Providence, where the sandwiches are made and distributed every Monday starting at 12 noon until all the sandwiches are completed.

A Grassroots Effort That Grew

Many volunteers initially dedicated their time to making sandwiches at St. John's every third Saturday of the month. The Knights of Columbus organized the effort, with young people participating to earn their confirmation hours.

In March 2020, when everything began to shut down due to the global pandemic, Michael Savage, a long-time resident of New Providence, and long-time volunteer for St. John's rallied over 100 families to make, collect, and distribute sandwiches, fresh fruit, and snack bars to five local charities that cover Union, Essex, and Hudson counties, and three New York City boroughs through the Bridges network.

The group began assembling sandwiches in their homes and drop them off. It was a grassroots, word of mouth thing. "We started by making 40-50 sandwiches at our kitchen table," said Peter Lopez, a long-time volunteer. Adding, "My granddaughter has been here—and at our kitchen table."

This small effort quickly grew into a well-coordinated operation. As demand increased, the ministry expanded and moved to a dedicated space where volunteers could work together more efficiently.

Savage immediately went to Father Bill to use the kitchen at OLP for the sandwich drive. "Without hesitation, he agreed, and we were off and running," Savage had said.

While volunteers purchase meat items weekly from discount stores like Costco and Restaurant Depot, bread donations are generously provided by Panera Bread. Additionally, Avenue Deli occasionally donates meat, and Bagel Café contributes cheese. These efforts are further supported by various local businesses and individuals that provide additional contributions.

Personal Stories and Camaraderie

Volunteers often find personal fulfillment and a sense of community in their work. One volunteer humorously mentioned, "I always say I know it's going to get me a knock on the pearly gates.'" The camaraderie among volunteers is palpable, as they share laughs and stories while making sandwiches. "We hang out and have a good time," said another volunteer, emphasizing the social aspect of their work.

Expanding the Ministry

The ministry not only focuses on sandwiches but also accepts donations of fruit, snacks, and even clothing. "We take anything, even clothing. St. John's gets a lot of stuff. Donations from various sources all contribute to our efforts," shared a volunteer. This holistic approach ensures that they can meet diverse needs within the communities in need.

The Future of the Sandwich Ministry

The Sandwich Ministry continues to thrive, thanks to the dedication of its volunteers and the support of the community. "We plan to keep going, providing support 52 weeks a year. The need is constant, and so is our commitment," said Reilly. "Every sandwich counts," emphasizing the impact of each contribution. "If you made peanut butter and jelly and dropped off a 10-pack, it will get eaten—they love peanut butter and jelly." She explains that peanut butter and jelly is the most requested item because it fits all dietary restrictions. "We can't give some people pork products, so peanut butter and jelly benefits vegetarians, too. And the kids eat it—it's delicious and highly desired."

Join the Effort

If you are interested in volunteering or donating, the Sandwich Ministry is always in need of help. Whether you can donate supplies, make sandwiches, or contribute financially, your support is invaluable. For more information, you can contact Mike Savage at 908-400-6885.

Sandwich donation particulars / estimates -

Two loaves of sandwich bread
2 to 3lbs of meat. (ham, bologna, turkey)
1 lb of cheese.
No condiments.
Put each sandwich in a plastic fold over sandwich bag (not ziplock) and put it back in the bread bag. Please mark the bag with the ingredients AND the number of sandwiches in the bag.  Peanut Butter and Jelly sandwiches are also accepted.

This is just a guideline.  All donations are appreciated!

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