FLAG of MSH Contributes $643K to Businesses
Submitted by Nina D’Souza, President FLAG of MSH
FLAG of MSH (Front Line Appreciation Group of Millburn Short Hills) started as a pandemic initiative and has since grown to new heights as it continues to secure government funded grants to help so many local Millburn restaurants and food pantries. As of this writing FLAG of MSH has contributed $643,000 to Millburn businesses.
FLAG of MSH was founded in April 2020 by the Cross and D’Souza families of Short Hills to engage the support of the local community and recognize front line workers for their efforts during the pandemic. Initially, all funding came from the generous donations of township residents and fundraising initiatives. In a few months over $92,000 was raised that helped provide almost 10,000 meals to hospital front line workers who put their own lives at risk to help those affected during the pandemic.
Over 15 Millburn restaurants have been beneficiaries of FLAG of MSH efforts; Saigon Cafe, Cara Mia, Mariachi, Oscar’s Deli, Moonshine Supper club, Rock n Joes, Vinnies Pan Pizza, Thai House, Basilicos, Brooklyn Pizza, La Strada, Playa Bowls, Goldbergs & Ms. Lin amongst others.
In addition to hospitals, FLAG fueled local organizations with hot meals including the Millburn Police Force, Millburn Short Hills Volunteer First Aid Squad, Millburn Fire Department, the Department of Public Works, the Department of Education and the teachers of Millburn Schools.
Noticing that the local restaurants still needed help, FLAG of MSH applied for the New Jersey Economic Development Association (NJEDA) Sustain and Serve Grants. Over the last 2 years FLAG of MSH received an additional $553,480 in grant funding enabling the organization to source and deliver over 60,000 meals since inception. In total FLAG of MSH has channeled $643,000 to help support Millburn businesses.
With this additional funding and through partnerships with MEND (Meeting Each Need with Dignity) and Table to Table Food Rescue, FLAG of MSH has been able to support food pantries, reaching many communities and individuals with food insecurities.
True to its mission, FLAG of MSH continues to seek ways to support the Millburn Short Hills business community and food pantries. FLAG is spearheaded by Nina D’Souza, President; Kyle D’Souza, Logistics & Fund Raising and Aiden D’Souza, Database Administrator. FLAG has successfully completed 3 years of service and is going strong.
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