The New Love Center Food Pantry of Jersey Shore honored one of its most dedicated volunteers, Faye Reve, who turned 100 years old on Aug. 22. Reve has been helping the food pantry since it opened in 2021 and rarely misses a monthly distribution.
A surprise celebration
The food pantry staff and volunteers surprised Reve with a tiara, a sash, a card, and cupcakes during the distribution on Aug. 21. They praised her for her commitment and inspiration to the food pantry’s mission.
“Faye, you’ve been an inspiration to us all, and as I’ve told you before, when I grow up I want to be just like you,” said Christine Barner, a food pantry volunteer.
Reve was delighted by the gesture and thanked everyone for their kindness. She also shared some of her wisdom with the crowd.
“Life is good. You just have to take each day as it comes and keep going. Most of all, be kind to one another. That’s what we’ve lost. If you’re lucky you have good friends and family,” she said.
A faithful volunteer
Reve joined the food pantry a couple of years after it opened and has been a regular volunteer ever since. She helps with sorting and packing food items for the clients who come to the pantry.
“She’s a wonderful person – jeepers, I don’t know what else to say. She’s something else. You don’t have to be around her very long to know her,” said Hazel Spong, Reve’s cousin.
Reve is so dedicated to the food pantry that she even showed up for work after breaking three ribs in a fall three weeks ago.
“Someone called her and said ‘we’re going to miss you on Friday’ and she said, ‘well I’m coming. Why wouldn’t I?’” Barner recalled.
A noble mission
The New Love Center Food Pantry serves about 1,000 families every month in the Jersey Shore area. It provides fresh fruits and vegetables, meat, dairy products, bread, and other staples to those in need.
The food pantry also offers educational programs such as children’s literacy events, adult and youth nutrition classes, cooking demonstrations, financial literacy workshops, health awareness sessions, and a scholarship program.
The food pantry received The Nourishing Award from the Central Texas Food Bank on Aug. 11 for its excellence in food distribution, nutrition education, and community outreach.
“We are deeply grateful for this recognition of our mission,” said Sam Pearce, the executive director of the food pantry.
The food pantry relies on donations from churches, civic groups, foundations, and individuals to support its operations. It also welcomes volunteers who want to join its family of helpers.
“We are humbled to receive this award, which clearly acknowledges the support of our churches, efforts of our volunteers, and generous donations provided by citizens,” said Paul King, the board president of the food pantry.