By Rachel Buxbaum, CSR Relations Manager
At America’s Grow-a-Row (AGAR), we’re on a mission to get fresh, healthy produce into the hands of those who need it most. If we’re being honest, farming is hard work and expensive. As a local, privately funded nonprofit, with a small but mighty team, we could never do it on our own. We rely on the generosity of corporations, foundations, and individuals who believe in making a difference.
This year, we’re giving a big High Five to some of our corporate partners who went above and beyond to support our mission. These companies didn’t just show up—they dug in, rolled up their sleeves, and made a lasting impact.
Each of our High Five honorees were nominated by an AGAR team member who saw firsthand how their contributions helped fuel our work. And now, it’s time to give them the spotlight they deserve!
Meet the 2024 High Five Honorees!
Hunterdon Heroes – Our Hometown Champions
These companies call Hunterdon County home and have been rock-solid supporters of our mission.
- ShopRite of Hunterdon County – Our relationship with ShopRite goes way back—so far that even our records can’t trace its start! Their support comes in many forms, from sponsorship and volunteer groups to rescuing over 500,000 servings of produce through our store gleaning program. Owners Joe and Jeanine Colalillo are fierce advocates of fighting hunger in our local community and always looking for ways to support AGAR’s mission.
- Unity Bank – Since 2016, Unity Bank has been a powerhouse partner, sending volunteers to the fields every month of our harvest season and serving as the lead sponsor for our Fields of Service program. Off the field, they help spread the word with donated billboard space.
Jersey Heirloom – A Legacy of Giving
This category is all about companies with deep roots in New Jersey that have stuck with us through the years.
Johnson & Johnson – There is no partner more deserving of the Jersey Heirloom High Five than Johnson & Johnson! Not only were they our first-ever corporate volunteer group, but they were also one of our first corporate financial supporters. Fast forward to 2025 and our partnership is stronger than ever. Last season 857 employees spent 2,500+ hours across 37 volunteer shifts harvesting for people in need. Add in their generous donations and matched giving program to double the impact? That’s a true legacy!
Fruitful Giving – Big Hearts, Big Impact
This partner has made a seriously generous impact on our mission.
- B&G Foods – Fighting food insecurity isn’t just a mission for B&G Foods—it’s personal. Their generosity allows us to provide over 1 million additional servings of fresh produce each year. But they don’t stop there! Their employees travel from all over the country to harvest with us, and they even take it a step further—directing produce to food banks in other regions where their employees live and work. Local employees then volunteer their time repacking that produce for their communities.
Although B&G only joined us in 2022, their impact has already been enormous. Talk about going the extra mile!
Harvest Helper – The Hardest Workers in the Field
These folks show up ready to sweat, giving 100% (or more!) in the fields.
- PSEG – “We are always happy to see PSEG on the calendar. They are always willing to roll up their sleeves to get the job done. No one works harder in the fields.” says our Field Team Supervisor, Jacqui Witte. And she’s not exaggerating! Since 2018, PSEG has been a fierce partner, bringing unmatched energy to the fields. Whether they’re harvesting, planting, or rescuing produce, they don’t just work hard—they inspire everyone around them to keep going.
Farm Fresh – New to the Crew, but Already All In
These guys may be new to AGAR, but they’ve hit the ground running!
- Wegmans – We first connected with Wegmans in April 2024, and they didn’t hesitate to jump in. Last season, employees from four different locations came out to volunteer, and Wegmans even stepped up as a season sponsor to help feed more people. They are committed to doing more this year and we’re excited to see where this partnership grows next!
A HUGE thank you to all our High Five honorees for your dedication, generosity, and hard work. Your support helps us get fresh, healthy food into the hands of those who need it most.
Feeling inspired? Want to see your company on next year’s list? Let’s make it happen! Reach out to learn how your business can get involved in 2025 – Rachel Buxbaum (rachel@americasgrowarow.org), AGAR CSR Manager, would love to speak with you!
