College Achieve Paterson Wins Back-to-Back State Food Drive Honors

College Achieve Paterson Wins Back-to-Back State Food Drive Honors with 8,800 Pounds Donated

College Achieve Paterson continues to make a powerful impact both inside and outside the classroom, earning statewide recognition for a second consecutive year in the Community Food Bank of New Jersey’s Students Change Hunger Campaign.

During the 2024–2025 campaign, College Achieve Paterson set a goal to finish first in the statewide competition for “Most Total Food Donated.” Through the dedication of scholars, families, and staff, the school community successfully achieved that goal, earning the top honor from the Community Food Bank of New Jersey.

CAPS Market St. alone donated an incredible 5,380 pounds of food directly to the Catholic Charities of Paterson Food Pantry — providing the equivalent of more than 4,480 meals to families throughout the Paterson community. The donations helped support local families facing food insecurity and reinforced the school’s commitment to community service.

Building on that success, College Achieve Paterson entered the 2025–2026 Students Change Hunger Campaign with an even bigger mission: collecting 6,000 pounds of food. Week after week, donations poured in as scholars and their families rallied together to support those in need.

The response was so overwhelming that organizers arranged an early food pickup to ensure donations reached families before the Thanksgiving holiday. Final deliveries continued through December, helping provide meals and hope throughout the holiday season and into the New Year.

This year’s statewide campaign collected more than 25,000 pounds of food from 42 participating schools across New Jersey. Out of all participating schools, College Achieve Paterson once again earned the award for “Most Total Food Donated,” securing the title for back-to-back years with an outstanding total of 8,800 pounds of food donated.

The achievement highlights the strength, compassion, and unity of the College Achieve Paterson community. School leaders expressed gratitude to every scholar, family member, staff member, and supporter who contributed to the campaign’s success.

As the celebration continues, College Achieve Paterson is already looking ahead to next year’s Students Change Hunger Campaign — ready to once again serve the Paterson community and make an even greater impact.