Across New Jersey, food banks and community kitchens are reporting a substantial rise in demand and food insecurity within their communities.”   More people may be turning to food banks and soup kitchens because of high rent increases, ongoing inflation and the lingering effects of ceased pandemic relief programs, local experts say.”  NJ Advance Media. That’s why Livingston Philanthropies, Inc. (LPI), now in its thirteenth year, endeavors to expand and enhance our monthly purchase and distribution of fresh produce and fruit.  We call in it the “Green Initiative.” Families living below the poverty line are in dire need of fresh food. This is really an emergency situation.  The need is huge and growing every month.  LPI is reaching-out with a formal funding campaign to service this specific and fundamental basic life need. LPI volunteers are dedicated to continuing current, monthly fresh food purchases for Newark Emergency Services For Families (NESF) and expanding purchase of life-sustaining sustenance for our newest distribution partner, the philanthropic and wonderful Temple Rock Community Church of Newark (TRCCN). The Green Initiative is Livingston Philanthropies first grant outreach in some 12.5 years, with the goal of generating $50,000.00 for this purpose in 2024.  It’s important to note that LPI is a one-hundred-percent volunteer, 501(c)(3) non-profit with its mission of providing for families living below the poverty line and the homeless.