Carli Clesmere 
Winter is the ideal time to spread a little warmth, literally and figuratively, by giving back to the community. While volunteering is important year-round, the colder months and the start of a new year are when extra hands + hearts can make the biggest impact. From helping families put food on the table to supporting local arts and youth programs, Essex County has plenty of ways to get involved this season. Volunteering does not just help others; it also brings a sense of purpose, connection, and good vibes for the new year. Read on for a roundup of ways to give back, volunteer, or donate this winter in Essex County.
Church of the Holy Spirit Food Pantry and Thrift Shop | 36 Gould Street, Verona
This church supports the community with outreach, adult education, + fun fellowship events, from potluck brunches to pizza parties, and wine tastings. Volunteers can help at the Food Pantry, open to Essex County residents on the 4th Saturday of each month, with shifts from 8:15AM to 9:45AM and 9:45AM to 11:15AM. Services include in-vehicle shopping and home deliveries for Verona and Cedar Grove residents. Donations, by check, online, or Venmo, are also an option.
Franciscan Charities — St. Ann’s | 242 South 8th Street, Newark
With many events over the years, Franciscan Charities has served loads of meals, distributed coats, hats, gloves, scarves, and toys, supplied school essentials, and provided hygiene products and social services. Volunteers can pitch in, and donations are welcome online.
Human Needs Food Pantry | 9 Label Street, Montclair
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Helping neighbors for more than 40 years, this pantry welcomes volunteers ages 18 +. Tasks include bagging groceries, picking up food from suppliers, sorting and organizing clothing and household items, distributing onsite, and delivering to homebound clients.
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Joji’s Angels | 114 South Arlington Avenue, East Orange
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Joji’s Angels supports displaced, at-risk, and homeless youth and families by providing food, shelter, advocacy, and essentials. Volunteers can help deliver programs that restore dignity and support vulnerable members of the community.
MESH Café | 169 Bloomfield Avenue, Montclair
MESH provides nightly meals to food-insecure neighbors year-round and offers overnight Respite for unhoused individuals during extreme cold (35° or below) and inclement weather (40° or below with rain).
Montclair Art Museum | 3 South Mountain Avenue, Montclair
This museum preserves and celebrates American and Native American art while showcasing a diverse range of artists. Volunteers ages 13+ can help inspire visitors of all ages and engage in creative programs, ideal for those looking to share their love of art this winter.
Montclair Community Farms | 108 Orange Road, Montclair
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Founded in 2011, this farm supports youth development and expands access to fresh, affordable produce in local neighborhoods. Interested volunteers can email [email protected] to get on the volunteer list + stay updated on opportunities.
Montclair Film | 505 Bloomfield Avenue, Montclair
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This nonprofit brings movies, SLAM events, and improv nights to the Montclair community. Volunteers can help year-round at screenings, special events, and fundraisers. Perks include a volunteer t-shirt, screening vouchers, a free Montclair Film membership, + invitations to volunteer appreciation events.
Montclair Township Animal Shelter | 77 North Willow Street, Montclair
Serving Montclair, Verona, and Nutley, this municipally run shelter provides care and control for local animals. Those interested in helping can fill out a volunteer application or email [email protected].
Nutley Family Service Bureau (NFSB) | 169 Chestnut Street, Nutley
NFSB strengthens the social and emotional well-being of families through mental health counseling and social service programs. Volunteers can assist at the Thrift Shop, Food Pantry, fundraisers, and outreach programs. Open Houses for prospective volunteers are held on the second Monday of each month at 11AM and the third Tuesday of each month at 6PM.
The Apostles’ House | 24 Grant Street, Newark
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Supporting homeless families in Newark and surrounding areas, this organization helps build stability and self-sufficiency. Volunteers can assist with programs and services, and donations are welcome online.
Toni’s Kitchen | 73 S Fullerton Avenue, Montclair
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This food ministry provides healthy food to residents of West Orange, Montclair, and Bloomfield. Volunteer opportunities are available for adults, high school students, and younger children. Those interested in helping can sign up via the website or email [email protected].
United Community Corporation (UCC) | 332 South 8th Street, Newark
UCC helps low-income and disadvantaged families move toward self-sufficiency. This winter brings the Cookies, Coats, and Cocoa event, which takes place on January 21st from 3PM to 5PM at the West Side Park Community Center in Newark. Volunteers can sign up on the UCC website to help.
Van Vleck House and Gardens | 21 Van Vleck Street, Montclair
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Volunteers can lend a hand with garden maintenance, assist with educational programs, or support special events throughout the year. Contributions and donations are always welcome online to help keep the gardens thriving and the programs running.
YMCA of Montclair | 25 Park Street, Montclair
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Since 1891, the YMCA has empowered young people, promoted health and well-being, and strengthened the community. Interested volunteers can contact Jen Grisafi, Volunteer and Community Engagement Manager, at [email protected].
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