How many people can one fur coat feed and clothe? Well, if it’s the legendary fur coat donated in the 1970s, the answer is thousands.

Legend has it that in 1978, Bessie Green, then a member of the North Reformed Church in Newark, New Jersey, realized that if her fur coat was sold, the money could be used to purchase coats and food for the homeless and underprivileged of Newark. She then donated her fur coat to be used for that purpose.

While that story may or may not be completely true, Mrs. Green did plant the seed which became Bessie Green Community, Inc.

Incorporated as a 501(c)(3) charity in 1978, Bessie Green Community, Inc., began serving its neighbors by opening a clothing barn, soup kitchen, and food pantry.

Today, we provide life sustaining resources in what are considered food deserts (“areas that lack access to affordable fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat milk, and other foods that make up the full range of a healthy diet.”) in Newark.

Bessie Green Community Inc. desires to provide equitable access, which can be impaired or limited by several factors, such as economic factors, location, time, and the ability to travel to a store. With the added factor of the pandemic, the hindrances that affect access are exponentially and detrimentally affecting urban communities.

Our mission is to: “feed, clothe and support our neighbors with compassion and dignity” and provide a holistic approach to social service assistance in the community that ensures self-sustainability in our clients. We stand out from other organizations serving a similar population in our area with friendly and proactive staff. We provide food, clothing, diapers, toiletries, children’s books, life skills education and a social worker to provide additional assistance in housing, rental assistance, utilities and other needed benefits for our clients.

Help us as we continue to provide food and clothing to our neighbors. We rely on donations from area churches, Corporate Sponsorships, Foundation Grants and individual contributions.