Community FoodBank of New Jersey lightens load of bag ban for nonprofits

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With the state’s new single-use plastic and paper bag ban now in effect, the Community FoodBank of New Jersey has launched a new reusable shopping bag donation program to benefit local nonprofits.

Approximately 300 community partners, including food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters and other food assistance organizations, have opted in to CFBNJ’s program, which connects folks with nonprofits near them taking reusable shopping bag donations.

CFBNJ partner Stop & Shop will help collect reusable shopping bag donations, while fellow collaborators New Jersey Food Council, New Jersey Clean Communities Council, Wakefern and Wegmans will help spread the word about the program.

Food banks and pantries like CFBNJ have until Nov. 4 to comply with the ban — an extension of six months past when other businesses are required to acquiesce. Such organizations are still in emergency response mode due to the pandemic’s effects.

“We at CFBNJ look forward to expanding our efforts to be environmentally friendly by ceasing the use of disposable bags starting in November,” said Carlos Rodriguez, CFBNJ president and CEO. “Until then, this program will give us and our community partners a head start in operationalizing the discontinuation of single-use bags. We’re thrilled to be able to connect generous individuals with the organizations that need these donations.”

Clean, new or gently used bags can be donated at several locations throughout the state.