Lacey Township Community Coming Together for Food Drive

Denise Field, the owner of Craving Cupcakes in Lanoka Harbor, wanted to do something to help the families and businesses in Lacey Township in these tough economic times, especially during the holiday season. So, she and the two ladies who give coupon classes at Field's Route 9 shop sprung into action.

A few weeks ago, Field, Veronica Liga and Amanda Zito began a food drive for the Lacey Food Bank, as well as a pet food and pet supplies drive for the Popcorn Park Zoo's animal shelter. But, Field said, it has become much larger than that, with the local, small businesses getting involved to help the cause.

"I've seen a lot of families who need help, as well as small businesses," said Field. "I wanted to help the businesses like me who are struggling and
show the community we care."

To add an incentive for people to donate, more than 35 businesses in the township have contributed items for gift baskets that will be raffled off at Craving Cupcakes on December 21. Every person who makes a food or pet item donation will receive a raffle ticket.

The non-perishable food items, pet food, and pet supplies, such as warm blankets, can be dropped off at Craving Cupcakes. 

"We have the items on a table and when it gets full, they make a drop off," said Liga. " 'Fill the table' is a psychological thing with the food bank."

In addition, business cards of the businesses that have donated are being displayed on the wall above the table and those same stores are displaying pink cupcake signs in their windows.

"More and more, we're getting the word out and it's getting bigger," said Field.  "People are seeing the cupcakes in the windows around town."

Field opened her store in June after her co-workers at a local retailer suggested she sell the cupcakes she frequently brought in for them. She felt the town needed a quaint little shop where people knew your name, like in the olden days. Her business has a nostalgic decor and even the specialty cupcakes are named after entertainment icons.

"We're trying to bring the community together at this time of giving," she said.  "The small businesses are reaching out, we're here and we care."

They've already made several drop-offs to the Food Bank and have recently been getting more donations. They stressed even one can of food will help a family in need.

"This is promoting community spirit," said Liga. "Everyone benefits."

To get involved, call Veronica Liga at 609-242-7205. To drop off food, visit Craving Cupcakes at 629-1 North Main Street.