Bethel AME Food Pantry Garden

In 2019 Kula Urban Farm began cultivating the vacant lot next door to the greenhouse on Atkins Ave. The lot, owned by the Bethel AME Church, manages a food pantry on the site (open Wednesdays and Fridays). Working alongside the Bethel YPD (Young Persons Department) Kula cultivated and planted a garden on the lot, the produce from which is donated to its food pantry and directly to residents. Here we planted Collard Greens, Heirloom Tomatoes, Okra, Shishito Peppers, Cantaloupe, Watermelon Radishes, Christmas Beans, 4 varieties of apple trees, strawberries, herbs and began building the soil with mulch and compost for the years to come.

The Bethel Ford Center has been the hub of vital outreach programs to the residents of Asbury Park since 1999. The property was deeded to Bethel A.M.E. Church by the family of a deceased parishioner, and after being renovated, became the site of a food pantry, clothing closet and computer lab. 

The Ford Center operates under the Bethel Community Development Corporation (BCDC), a non-profit formed by the church. Known as the “Red Door,” the Ford Center presently houses a thriving food pantry supported by Fulfill of Monmouth and Ocean Counties. Fresh food items, along with packaged, canned and frozen goods are available on the main level of the center to residents in need. A clothing closet is located on the upper level of the center. Gently used clothing items, donated to the Ford Center, are available free of charge. 

In addition to the food pantry and clothing closet, the Ford Center is also the home of a community garden. In collaboration with Interfaith Neighbors’ Kula Urban Farm, which is adjacent to the center, Bethel youth plant organic produce and maintain the garden. The community garden initiative serves two purposes. Youth learn about gardening, healthy eating and volunteerism; and fresh produce is available to residents of the community free of charge. 

The Ford Center is open from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday and Friday. Clients are required to register at the center in order to access services. A photo ID is also required. 

FOR THE LATEST PANTRY AND SOUP KITCHEN CLOSURES AND HOUR CHANGES contact FULFILL of Ocean and Monmouth Counties

Last Updated: 12/23/22