Cumac Echo, Inc.

Pues no muy contenta por que trabaje en la puerta y recibía órdenes que no dejara entrar a más pero donas más que una persona por familia , muchas veces entraba a las personas con sus hijos oh acompañantes y la jefa decía que no , otras veces las personas agarran su comida lo que quieren llevar y ellas decían agarren si y la jefa decía no es mucho no dejen que lleven bolsa negras y que agarren mucho una caja por familia y ahora disque se quejan de mi , pero no es la razón la razón es que ellas agarran lo que donan se los llevan a su casas y dejan lo que no sirve y como yo me di cuenta muchas veces que agarraban ropa y se las quitaban de las manos para mi eso no se vale para mi es humillación la verdad trabajar y ver injusticias y decirlas no m gustan además no les gustan Inmigrantes ni Centro Americanos por que lo digo ? Es por que mi gente pide cambio de Carmen no lo hacen peruanos no lo hacen ah pero si son Dominicanos Boricuas les dan de mas y no dicen nada . Para mi eso no es ayudar y a los que necesitan de verdad no les dan y es muy raro siempre llegan las mismas personas a buscar comida y a los que realmente son homeless no les ayudan lo siento pero Cumac es una falsa solo para agarrar fondos para darles a los que les guste oh quieran a los que tienen carros del año bien vestidos por que si llega una persona mal olor te dicen no la pases así m tocó a mi a una señora , por que olía mal y la tuvieron afuera y yo no la pude entrar por que esas fueron las órdenes de la jefa lo siento pero me siento Feliz con migo misma ahora que no veo esto y no soy parte de una mentira .

It is an honor and a pleasure to volunteer for CUMAC. They are already doing such great work yet always looking ahead to improve their services.

CUMAC is a wonderful nonprofit. I started volunteering here during spring 2020 as a way to productively get out of the house, and CUMAC was so welcoming accommodating and doing great work for the community.

Since posting my initial review in July 2020, I continue to volunteer regularly and have joined CUMAC’s board of trustees. I strongly believe in the work and the people, and the dignity with which all are served. I am learning about the effects of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), the benefits of trauma-informed community building, and the partnerships CUMAC initiates with local nonprofits and public agencies at the city and state levels to better serve community residents. I encourage you to volunteer and experience all that makes CUMAC a unique and exceptionally led organization!

As a Board member, i was drawn to CUMAC because of an interest in helping others but with little knowledge of food insecurity. After several short visits, i became emotionally tied to the team and all that they were doing. They truly cared about the people that they served and wanted to make an impact on their lives. Our motto feed people and change lives continues to this day but it is so much more than that. It is having respect for everyone who walks through our doors. Many times i have watched volunteers and workers and clients work side by side through out the day. We are making a difference because we believe we need empower others to change their lives. Food is just a small part of it, freedom of choice and respect for each other truly changes lives.

My teens and I have been volunteering at CUMAC for almost a year now. It’s such a great way to give to the community and make an impact. The space is safe, organized and clean, especially during the COVID pandemic. The staff are all very welcoming and provided the necessary training. We plan to continue volunteering for years to come!

The service that is provided is uniquely helpful.
The personnel serving there is extremely generous and available
The human environment is friendly and welcoming
The overall experience is greatly satisfying, useful and nice.
Personally, is one of the best places for volunteering and relationship I have ever met.

If you ever have the pleasure to volunteer at CUMAC, the people will forever change you. CUMAC is more than just a food pantry; they are a community of passionate, empathetic, and kind people who love what they do and strive not just to give food but also to educate, empower, and lift the communities around them. The core of CUMAC isn't just food but food justice and the intersections of race, poverty, justice, healing, and reconciliation. Staff members like Kayann educate their volunteers on ACEs to help others understand the trauma underneath people in poverty, changing the language, understanding, and culture around food justice. This is integral to their beliefs because, at CUMAC, it's not just about feeding people; it's about ending injustice and educating others on how we have played a part in this system and how we can end this unfair system. Often, you will hear Mark, the director, say that if we give food and collect food and see people like numbers, we are not genuinely feeding and empowering them but merely accentuating the problem. CUMAC is at the forefront of food justice as they are innovating the space to be more than food but the whole process, whether that's hiring and educating the workers from the neighborhood, paying livable wages, and teaching volunteers about ethical volunteering. When you first walk into CUMAC, you will meet Afton, a bright, energetic, friendly staff member who will be with you every step of the way, guiding you and helping you with the whole process whether you are a volunteer or someone in need of help. You will like I have instantly felt like you are a part of the CUMAC family because what they do indeed is what a family does take care of each other.

cumac is a Wonderful place to volunteer. All the staff and volunteers are great people and great to work with. It is a happy place and you can feel the love and positivity in the building. Volunteering is my passion as well as serving others and cumac provides that wonderful opportunity. They serve thousands of families with food and other services to improve their lives. I love cumac!!!!!!!!

It is an inspiring and friendly place to volunteer. The staff includes the volunteers in their “family.” They always have a meaningful project ready when the volunteers arrive to get to work.

I can't say enough good things about CUMAC. Having volunteered there several times, I continue to be impressed by how well organized and managed they are! When you show up to volunteer, everyone is friendly and welcoming. They always have a project ready to go and someone is there to monitor and assist should volunteers need help. They are amazingly well organized. Their care and concern for the community they serve is evident at every step of the way. Kudos to one of the most effective and best non-profits I have encountered, and I've worked for non-profits for over 40 years!

The folks at CUMAC are beyond helpful! Being the first time I volunteered, I was blown away at the impact this group has on the community. Their organization of products/services, knowledge of their customers, passion for their job and friendliness/patience with the volunteers was amazing! I can't wait to volunteer there again!

I really enjoy volunteering with CUMAC. The staff there are excellent and they take pride in the excellent work they are doing to assist people as much as they possibly can. It makes me really happy to know I can make a small difference in someone’s day by either sorting through goods for the marketplace, shopping for their food in the marketplace, or sorting through fresh produce. I really enjoy the environment at CUMAC and how friendly and helpful everyone is. Volunteering there even helped me meet other volunteers and get to know some wonderful people.

i began volunteering at CUMAC in 2020. It is a wonderful organization with a vital mission. Every time I work there, I know that I am making a difference which is deeply fulfilling. There are so many "food deserts" in the country and CUMAC is a fountain of healthy nourishment for those in need!

Mul bien buena comida si exelente ayuda para los pobre si

CUMAC - It's mission of changing lives as well as feeding people. Been fortunate to volunteer for them for 3 years. Have been on "furlough" for 4 months due to the Pandemic. Yet, the Pandemic, the Economic Crash, The food shortages, have not deterred this organization from showing up, day after day, and doing what it's built to do. With Mark Dinglasan leading, and a group of staff and volunteers that work hard every day, it's a beacon for the neighborhood in Patterson it serves. One of the best organizations, profit or non-profit, that I've had the pleasure of being associated with.

I have been fortunate to volunteer at CUMAC on a number of occasions, and each time I come away more and more impressed.
Not only is CUMAC doing great (and vital) work, but the enthusiasm and passion of the management and staff is inspiring. Employees, clients and volunteers are treated like family, and you cannot help but have a warm and positive experience.
I look forward to continuing to volunteer, and I am proud to support this outstanding organization!

CUMAC is simply a wonderfully caring organization. We became involved through our congregation, but it has now become so much more than that to us. It is the most welcome place to volunteer - they are organized and helpful, and the time you spend there is always purposeful. The work CUMAC has done, and is doing, is nothing short of amazing. Proud to support such a well run organization!

Our congregation has volunteered for and partnered with this extraordinary forward-looking organization for many years. The vision and leadership at the top has promoted independence, security, community, individuality, dignity, and empowerment among its clients. Members of their staff have taught us valuable lessons. Their clients not only depend on CUMAC for vital life needs, they are supported in their efforts to improve their lives for the long-term. I am proud to be a supporter of this organization, and I have confidence in their future and growth.

Our congregation has partnered with CUMAC in many ways. We have a great partnership and volunteers are always impressed with the dedication, professionalism and heart of the staff. Their programs are innovative and built around the changing needs of the community that they serve.

I have seen CUMAC evolve so much over the past few years, and I'm very excited about their new approach and direction. CUMAC looks beyond the need for food, to address the issues that lead to food insecurity. I appreciate the training I received before volunteering in the marketplace, and look forward to my time there helping people shop for food they like and need. I also enjoy volunteering in the warehouse with small groups from my temple community. Everyone there is down-to-earth, friendly, compassionate, and hard working. They make a difference. It feels like a true partnership.

I got involved with CUMAC in 2017 through Norwescap. The first day I came here, I fell in love with it! All the volunteers and staff are wonderful people. As I always say, there's a lot of love in the building. I get great joy from helping the clients. It's a privilege to be a volunteer at CUMAC!

I started to volunteer with CUMAC through Adrianna. The people here all have wonderful attitudes, a positive mindset and are always willing to drop what they're doing to lend a helping hand. I've only experienced CUMAC during the pandemic, but they are doing everything they can to serve their clients and help them meet their needs regardless of the public health crisis.

My son and I volunteer at CUMAC. It feels great knowing that we're helping others. We're glad we can help organize the Marketplace, even doing the simplest things as labeling bags. It's a great place to volunteer as the people are so friendly, nice, and helpful. They make it super easy to do our job.

I was introduced to CUMAC from my sister in law Andrea who has been a volunteer for over 20 years. I am absolutely amazed at all they have done in the community to help those in need and for the dignity they provide every person that walks through the door to pick up food, get job training, or shop at the thrift store. The staff is beyond outstanding, clients are super friendly and the management superior and inspiring! . As you can tell I am happy to be there as a volunteer and love the time doing nutritional food demos with the team.

I have been volunteering at CUMAC for close to a year now and I have to say this is one of humbling experiences I have had. I was hesitate going to volunteer at first but after the first day I wanted to keep coming back. The organization make such a lasting difference on the community and their staff. I would recommend volunteering at this organization to anyone who wants to make a positive change in the community whether great or small.

While CUMAC is doing so many amazing things to help feed people, their ability to touch and improve people's lives is what really makes them a truly exceptional non-profit organization. CUMAC is a family who is driven to make a positive and lasting difference on improving lives in the extended Paterson community. Their goal to ultimately eliminate poverty might seem like a wild and crazy dream, but it is amazing to see the progress that they make each and every day at achieving this lofty goal. I'm very proud to volunteer at this amazing organization that I now consider as part of my family.

CUMAC is a great non profit doing amazing, inspiring things. From a vision for providing healthy "food as medicine" to equipping and empowering people, CUMAC brings those it serves in the community step by step towards a healthier more abundant life. Outstanding staff and work!

CUMAC is amazing and meets an important and acute need in Paterson. It feeds thousands of people each month, it has a job training program, and it shares love and compassion as well as food. My husband and I have chosen just a couple of places to give deeply to (instead of giving less to a lot of places), and CUMAC is one of them. We know our gifts are being used to help actual people in need in immediate ways. We also are part of two community gardens that grow vegetables that CUMAC distributes along with its dry goods and frozen food. CUMAC is creative, resourceful, and willing to hear ideas and receive what people have to give.

This is a FANTASTIC organization. I have witnessed first hand the good they do for the entire Passaic County. Without the hard work and efforts of CUMAC there would be a huge void in the health and wellness of all of the people they serve.

I fell in love with CUMAC when I was introduced to the organization through some individuals at my firm. I eventually met the Director, Executive Director and employees at CUMAC and all I can say is what an impressive group of people! I also spent some time volunteering onsite with a couple of coworkers this past Summer and the people were warm, inviting, knowledgeable and really educated my group on the mission of CUMAC and the passion they have for the community they serve. I'm really glad to be associated with such an amazing organization of people who are all so personally invested in the well being and success of the families they serve. CUMAC has heart! The families of Paterson couldn't be in better hands.

CUMAC is a wonderful organization. The staff are so knowledgeable about the work and the community. I have worked with several organizations and have rarely seen the level of professionalism, commitment, and care that CUMAC offers to its clients. I am also very impressed by their understanding of what leads to food insecurity and their approach to addressing it. Kudos to a great team and the work they are doing.

CUMAC delivers amazing service not only to their clients and the community but also as a partner to other nonprofit agencies in the area. They are a great group of professional allies to work with and we are thrilled to be able to have them in our corner of the world.

CUMAC is an amazing organization. The staff is wonderful and so committed to their work. The amount of people they serve through the pantry and warehouse is incredible. Plus, they manage supportive housing, run a thrift shop and operate a workforce development program. CUMAC is a critical resource to the families and children in Paterson and Passaic County.

CUMAC is a wonderful organization serving so many people in the area, but more importantly caring for the employees that serve the organization. It is a family atmosphere wherein everyone takes care of each other. The store items are affordable and the employees make sure it is a clean and inviting experience for the customers. Definitely a top rated organization!

I've had the pleasure of volunteering with CUMAC and at their events and it's always a great experience. The staff and other volunteers are incredibly kind and passionate about the work they do. There are often long lines in CUMAC's pantry and always a lot of activity in their warehouse. It's obvious spending time on site that you're part of something big, you're with a group that is really making a difference in people's lives. I'm happy I found this place and can know that my time is valued and that I'm helping to make a difference.

Cumac is an amazing resource for the community members of Paterson. Their caring and personalized approach is the reason why they have been running for so long. I have volunteered here a number of times on my own and with groups. Each time I have left feeling like I made a difference, and I have helped opened up many peoples eyes to what kind of help this community needs and how great it feels to help out. I am so thankful that I discovered Cumac and have the time and sometimes the resources to help out where help is needed. Paterson is lucky to have Cumac and all those who work there to keep it going.

CUMAC organization has done amazing work in the City of Paterson NJ. The staff at the organization are friendly, caring, and always eager to help the community it serves in many ways. The collaboration with different agencies in the community is magnificent; the staff provides consistent follow up to ensure they are always able to provide some assistance if needed, and makes me feel part of the team. I will never forget the one winter I called over to CUMAC asking for assistance in helping a homeless individual get a coat and socks in the middle of winter. The staff at the organization just told me to send the person over and they will make sure she would get whatever she needed. This is one of many efforts that should not get overlooked and I will never forget the consistency of this organization.

Ever since volunteering at CUMAC and understanding their mission to support families that struggle with hunger, I without a doubt believe this organization deserves the appraisal to be considered a top non profit.

They work to provide important resources like food, clothing, and other services to not only alleviate hunger but the roots causes of hunger as well. The warehouse includes staff members and volunteers that work together improve the living and health conditions of 1 in 7 NJ residents. I see a bright future ahead for this organization, and believe they are capable to actually put a stop to hunger eventually in all NJ family homes.

I see so many homeless people and people in general that are in the need of food which breaks my heart. I stumbled upon a Cumac two summer's ago as a way to give back to my community. Cumac is a nonprofit organization who's mission is to feed people and change lives. It sure does that. when I volunteer I pack hundreds of bags full of different assortments of food that will be handed out to those in need. The staff is very wonderful and is always there to assist me. This organization will always hold a special place in my heart because volunteering here has made me grow as a person and I know that my help has impacted many lives.

Although I am no longer living in NJ, I worked with CUMAC and Andrian for nearly 5 years. The support and diligence that they provide to community members not only exceeds those within the city, but also when compared to non-profits throughout NJ. The staff is always in a great mood and so very supportive of the community. They have a genuine interest in the well-being of those who live in Paterson. The "far exceeding expectations" (stars) statement above, only partially captures the beautiful work they do.

I work for an agency who works with Adrian and his team at CUMAC. They do amazing work with the community. He is always willing to do whatever it takes to help out the community. He goes above and beyond to do his job and to make everyone feel comfortable. The workers are always helping there clients with food, or even helping clients load it in there push carts.

This is a great non-profit. I came with my mom who was in need of food items towards the end of the month. They treated us graciously and provided us with great service. We received the food my mother needed and were able to get fresh fruits and veggies that are not often found in food pantries. Thank you CUMAC!

I have been volunteer at CUMAC for over a year. What an amazing group of people to work with and around. The staff is happy to answer any and all questions with a smile and encouragement. The work they do is so inspiring, the staff along with the volunteers are putting Christian action into action and they are truly the hands and feet of Christ. The clients that come into the pantry and thrift shop are appreciative of all that is done for them. There is no need for hunger in this world and we all should be sharing our bounty with others. It is wonderful to arrive and be greeted with a smile. God is in the building all the time.

CUMAC is truly a great organization that runs creative events to raise funds for hunger. From informing me about how hunger affects our cities and countries in a showing of "A Place at the Table" to satisfying my itch to run in the "Scare Away Hunger" event and to hear fantastic music at "Beetles Night." I enjoy the events that they run and the care and passion of the people who run them.

Before Volunteering at CUMAC, I was unaware of how many people were positively effected by the work CUMAC does. I had the opportunity to work with Bert on the truck a few days a week. We went from store to store picking up different food and clothing that they wanted to donate. As we were pulling back into the parking lot each day, the faces of dozens of people on the streets lit up. It feels amazing to know that I was, and will continue to be, a part of an organization that is such a large help to so many people in need.

CUMAC is a wonderful organization with wonderful people. I've helped out at a few of their events - serving pizzas, hauling gear, etc. and the people running it are some of the nicest folks I've had the pleasure to meet. They are all very warm and generous with their time. They also do such good works; I've gone to their pantry several times on errands for them and there are always so many people there who are recipients of CUMAC's generosity. They also hold terrific events like the Beatles Night and the Fresh Food Demo/Salad making contest. They are a pleasure to be around and a real asset to the community!

I have been lucky enough to volunteer with CUMAC for the past 7 months. It has helped me grow spiritually, emotionally, and mentally. Seeing the work the volunteers and employees put in really restores my faith in humanity. The amount of people this organization helps is mind blowing and I could not be more proud to say that I consider CUMAC part of my family.

What an amazing organization and team of people! Our organizations has an annual day of service where we are able to partner with a local non-profit to volunteer with. I was referred to CUMAC by a friend, and we had the pleasure of partnering with them for our 2016 event. My coworkers and I were so impressed by the dedication of those who work and volunteer for CUMAC, and what they are able to do for the Northern NJ community. We are looking forward to working with and supporting CUMAC for many years to come!

I’ve had the privilege and pleasure of working with the Team of dedicated individuals who lead and manage this outstanding organization. Through their tireless efforts I’ve seen how CUMAC successfully fulfills its mission of feeding people and changing lives each and every day. Through its food pantry, food depot, thrift shop, annual food and school supply drives CUMAC consistently and effectively serves the underserved, providing thousands of adults and children with food, clothing, and household supplies that address their basic living needs. On a more strategic level, by leveraging its 30 years of experience addressing the root causes of hunger CUMAC has become a leader in helping a coalition of local pantries and agencies more effectively manage shared food resources across northern NJ and helping residents connect to feeding programs that best serve their needs. CUMAC is an organization that makes a significant difference in people’s lives and is an essential resource to a struggling community that needs all the help it can get.

Giving back to our community is extremely important to me. I have had amazing experiences volunteering at CHCC, Bowery Mission Group and Project Literacy in the past. The time spent at each is extremely valuable and I enjoyed them immensely.

Recently, I found myself with some time on my hands and called Project Literacy to get back to tutoring. I wanted to do more, so I looked for something in addition that is close by. Immediately I found CUMAC and so happy I did!! I volunteer twice a week. The facility is incredible!! Not only do they supply fresh vegetables and meats and groceries, bakery items etc. they also have a space for clothing and household supplies.

The people are amazing. Stephanie, Adrian, Javin and the many volunteers and workers that I have met along the way are awesome. They are such a warm, wonderful, loving group of people! So blessed to have crossed paths with CUMAC! I look forward to Mondays and Thursdays and help out in anyway I can.

We are thankful to the many grocery stores and individuals that help supply food pantries! It saddens me that we need such facilities but so happy that people and grocery stores come together to fill the need. It feels so wonderful to be able to help each other out. It's what we are meant to do and it feels so good doing it!

I volunteer once a week helping out where ever they need me. I have a great time working with and meeting other volunteers. The staff is very friendly and cooperative. I find it very therapeutic helping others in need.

I have recently started to volunteer weekly at CUMAC. When I leave, I can't wait to come back. The staff is very much appreciative of the volunteers and takes the time to answer questions and receive suggestions.

My favorite job is filling grocery bags with either meats, fresh produce or canned goods and pasta. In production line fashion we put a certain amount of items into each bag, knot the bag, and start again. I estimate we do about 100 bags each week doing the time I am there. Either that day or the next the bags are distributed to people who need them. I'm proud to help out so that others can have food to eat.

I've been a volunteer at CUMAC for about a year now, and I can only offer compliments to this wonderful place! The staff is unbelievably welcoming, and kind. Everyone works together to make sure each and every day is as productive as the last. Also, CUMAC engages extremely well with the surrounding community to ensure that everyone is aware of all the amazing things CUMAC has to offer! Again, I can not say enough positive things about CUMAC, as they only offer the best and help as much as they can!

Working here during summer vacation really changed me as a person, being in charge of many responsibilities, and receiving the same amount of respect everyone got! Although it's a pretty big facility, all the staff was so amazingly nice, and really helped me feel at ease and get closer to everyone. The work was great. Knowing the direct outcome of your volunteer work motivated me to work harder and with more pride.

I found how many people really live without the basic necessities, showing me really how lucky I am, and what a great opportunity I had in being able to lend a hand. The people really seem to care about the people in need, often striking up personal conversations and getting friendly with regulars. It was a great experience!

I have volunteered here several times and have had a great experience every time. All the staff and all the other volunteers are really there to help others. I am constantly talking about this agency and spreading the word about what they do.

The people at Cumac are the friendliest people you will meet. They are always willing to help and have such good hearts. My friends and I have volunteered there many times and it is always a pleasure to work with the staff.

I have volunteered with CUMAC often over the past few years. I am consistently impressed with the level of dedication and enthusiasm displayed by the staff. The facility itself is a warm labor of love and reaches a staggering number of those in need. The staff treats their clients with respect and empathy. I applaud CUMAC for the great work that they do and they continue to be my favorite charitable organization in New Jersey.

Volunteering at CUMAC consistently with my church over the last 3 years has been a rewarding experience. We have become a family of stewards to the community. CUMAC has enriched my life through their service to the community and they have helped me to make others more aware of the needs in poverty.

I have volunteered at cumac over the past two years and every experience has always been so positive. It has always been such a pleasure to volunteer at an organization that gives back to the community as much as Cumac does.

They do wonderful work! I donate all our clothes to Cumac.

They do the most amazing work with the most amazing people. I feel honored to have worked with them :)

As a Nutrition & Dietetics student, I have always been interested in ways to promote health and wellness within my community. I began volunteering at CUMAC after hearing from my classmates at Montclair State about the great things the organization was doing for the North Jersey area. From my first volunteer experience, I was not disappointed! When I imagined a large food pantry, I imagined rooms full of non-perishables. CUMAC is not only able to provide these items, but also fresh, perishable foods as well! I was very pleased to help pack fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and bread products to give out to those in need. CUMAC is ensuring that its families have access to healthful, nutritious, and delicious foods--significantly improving the quality of life for those in the North Jersey community.

In addition to assisting with the food, I have also been able to help out with other tasks. Just the other day I helped fill book bags with school supplies (including top of the line calculators!!) for kids going off to school in the upcoming month. These bags were high quality, filled with all of the necessary items--and more--for students of various ages. CUMAC recognizes the importance of education these filled book bags are surely going to help many students thrive this upcoming school year!

When I volunteer at CUMAC I am not only making a positive impact on the community, but I always leave with smiles. The employees, staff, and other volunteers I have met during my experience have been nothing but kind, giving, and genuine individuals all eager to spark change in their community. I look forward to my future volunteer experiences at CUMAC.

CUMAC's slogan is Feeding People, Changing Lives, and I truly believe that they try to live up to this each and every day! You can tell that their staff is passionate about their work and cares about each and every one of their clients. They also work to advocate, not only their cause in Paterson and the surrounding area, but bring light to the bigger picture of hunger and poverty globally. I am proud to support CUMAC and will continue to do so!

What makes CUMAC great you may ask? That's simple...it's people helping people. Compassionately meeting the needs of the community. So many have been impacted by the economic challenges of our times, and CUMAC has remained a Constant provider when assistance is needed. The CUMAC Team is THERE when the rains come causing floods, they are THERE when the need of food exceeds the days in the month and they are THERE when GRACE mandates a second chance. It is an honor to serve with this Team.

Over 25 years ago while serving as a pastor in Paterson I became acquainted with CUMAC when I brought my youth group to the ministry which was then located in a tiny church. Hugh Dunlop proudly gave us a tour. I later became a board member and ultimately served as Board President. What a joy it has been to watch this program grow and prosper. Thousands of lives are touched each year not just by the food provided but by encouragement and opportunities. I am so proud to be a part of this outreach to Paterson and beyond!

Worked the food drive, collecting and sorting food, and was. Impressed with the hard work and dedication of the volunteers, and organization and tireless effort of the staff. Very rewarding!

The most welcoming, dedicated staff staff with a passion to meet the needs of their clientele. Innovative programs geard to all ages. I believe that the longevity of Cumac Echo along with growth in services and programs are a role model to other non-profits. Stop in for help and receive more than you ask for.

I started volunteering for clean-up weekends and special food drives after hearing Pat Bruger present CUMAC's mission and needs to our church congregation over 20 years ago. The mission has not changed, "feeding people and changing lives". I now volunteer weekly for this worthwhile organization in order to give back in Christian love. I've never seen such a hard working, passionate group of individuals all with the same goal of making a difference in people's lives. The work they do has an immediate impact to the critical needs of the community whether it is through their food pantry, their retail store or their after-school programs. It is a pleasure and an inspiration to be around such a caring group of individuals.

Cumac is an outreach of the United Methodist church. It exemplifies the mission of the church and gives witness to the call of Jesus Christ to help our sisters and brothers in need.
Here is where church gets real. The people who work there are great; they know what it means; they give of themselves for the good of their neighbor.
Since I receive so much from God, here is a place I can give back, and be uplifted while helping other people.
It's a joy to be a part of this mission!
Scott

CUMAC is committed and dedicated to helping the community. They offer critical resources to the community such as the food pantry, community closet, after school assistance and so much more. My church Cornerstone has been blessed to participate w/ various events with CUMAC and look forward to supporting more events as CUMAC is dedicated to "Feeding People and Changing Lives!"

We brought our church youth group to Paterson to help with the food sorting. It was a great experience for the kids to be a part of such a diverse group of people all working for a common good. I would highly recommend this for all youth groups!

CUMAC has an incredible impact on the community – helping alleviate hunger and food insecurity for individuals and families. My family is comfortable donating to CUMAC because we want to help others in our community that need food, many of whom are children, veterans, or elderly – and we are confident that CUMAC has the right organization, history, personnel, and desire to do just that. CUMAC has been supported by a number of different organizations and individuals since its inception, underscoring the confidence others have in the excellent work done by CUMAC.

I have been involved with CUMAC for over 4 years now and they continue to surprise me with their dedication, professionalism and their heart. Staffed and managed by excellent individuals, a board tthat is fully engaged and diverse, CUMAC is a sound organization professing and practicing the Christian ideal of being the hope for the hopeless by living it out every single day.

I have been helping to collect and deliver food for CUMAC through my church for about 15 years. I am honored to say that I attend church with 2 of the children of the original founder of CUMAC, Hugh Dunlop, who began the pantry out of his garage after seeing many of his students coming to school hungry. I have been volunteering regularly at CUMAC for the last 2 years. CUMAC is one of the largest food pantry's in the Paterson area. As a recent graduate in Foods and Nutrition, I have found an Interest in hunger to be somewhat of a passion, and have recently worked with CUMAC events planners to host a viewing of "A Place At The Table" in an effort to make the community aware of how detrimental hunger is, and is getting, in our present day society. I was honored to be part of a post movie panel to answer questions regarding hunger issues and how they impact nutrition. I love going to volunteer at CUMAC every week. The people that work there are warm and caring individuals whose primary focus is to alleviate the pain that poverty and hunger afflicts upon our society at alarming rates. Any donations made to this wonderful organization are being put to good use.

My family has been involved with CUMAC for many years, and they're really doing great things for the community they serve. Over the years, I've donated both time and resources to CUMAC; and it's amazing to be able to support a cause that I've personally seen in action.

I was first introduced to CUMAC through my husband and have since made donations and participated in several of their charitable events. I'm happy to support a local group that is really making a change in people's lives.

The board and staff of CUMAC are exceptionally dedicated and committed to supporting the Paterson community by providing the essentials, food, clothing, and shelter. And they go far beyond these basics with a compassion for those they serve and determination to find a way to offer them a hand, a word of encouragement, a job, and a glimmer of hope in all they do. Clients are treated with great respect.
The CUMAC organization has been a reliable and stable presence in Paterson, one of America's poorest cities, for more than 30 years.

CUMAC is so incredible-- I have known about this organization since high school, and I love volunteering at this location. I have donated in the past, but actually working with staff and other volunteers in a rewarding experience. Food security issues hit a personal note with me; no one should go hungry on this Earth, but millions do every day. I love everyone's support and commitment to the cause; it is rare to encounter such love and dedication to serve those in need. I will be volunteering more in the future and hope to continue volunteering with food sorting as well as in the tutoring center they have for students. A thrift shop is also located on the premise!

A great and postive influence on the community, Cumac Echo helps create the world I choose to live in. I will always support such a worthwhile endeavor, feeding people is one step closer to being human. Thank you for all that you do.

I have been organizing our( church group) trip to volunteer at CUMAC since 2010. The team of employees and volunteers we have worked with are exceptional! CUMAC is definately living out their mission staement "Feeding People and CHanging Lives". And what a great feeling it is to be a part of that. Thanks be to God for this United Methodist Aid to the Community!

I have been joining members from my church in volunteering at CUMAC every other month for over a year, and our congregation has been more and more excited to help in CUMAC's work. I've always found the staff, interns and other volunteers to be very friendly and helpful, and I am proud to have added my own efforts to their dedicated work in alleviating poverty and hunger in northern New Jersey. Our most recent work day was today, and we were excited to pack hundreds of bags of groceries and snacks for distribution, and to assemble furniture items for sale in the thrift shop. An excellent and rewarding day!

I have been associated with CUMAC for several years now. CUMAC and its dedicated Team have made such a huge and positive impact on a number of peoples lives. From feeding the hungry and being advocates for those who can not advocate for themselves, thousands are helped every year.

CUMAC Echo is top-level in terms of mission, execution, and integrity. Very responsive and accurate in communications with donors. And having personally observed the impact on CUMAC's clients (those assisted) I have no reservations in recommending support of them. They have my trust and confidence.

Our churches have been very pleased to support CUMAC for years. The staff is great, the ministry is well organized and they serve a very pressing need for food, vocational training and providing services to a community in Paterson with many needs.

Feeding People & Changing Li didves, CUMAC serves as a local food pantry and distribution warehouse for other charities in Northern NJ. The best experience one can have as a volunteer, CUMAC always has a need that can be easily fulfilled by their volunteers, food distribution, clothing sorting, furniture building. They serve over 2600/month & manage to keep the thrift shop stocked too!!! Great charity & SUPER FRIENDLY STAFF TOO!

It was my pleasure to serve CUMAC. I volunteered through Bonner Leader AmeriCorp Program. The staff and other volunteers were very welcoming. Giving back to my own community has definitely made a huge change in me, thanks to CUMAC. I will definitely volunteer in CUMAC again. It was a great experience.

As one who has volunteered in many charitable endeavors from NJ to south FL, ie., soup kitchens, after school tutoring, prison minstry, I can say with a doubt that CUMAC is one of the most worthwhile charities that I know. Although we work hard, we leave tired but with a feeling of job well done. We enjoy the CUMAC employees and the other volunteers and look forward to our next meeting. Pete Riddle

"A pessimist, they say, sees a glass of water as being half empty; an optimist sees the same glass as half full. But a giving person sees a glass of water and starts looking for someone who might be thirsty. "
CUMAC is one of the largest food pantries that has been serving the Passaic County for over 30 years. And this is what the staff and volunteers at CUMAC are all about, feeding people and changing lives. Whether it be providing food, clothing, or furniture to those in dire need. As a former recipient myself, I have to say giving back to the community has definitely been my way of paying rent for my room here on Earth. I just get this pervading feeling of joy once I step foot into this center because there's just this aura of happiness and warm smiles from everyone you encounter, especially the Volunteer Coordinator. Which is why I always look forward to spending a few hours of my time here. Whether it's distributing surveys, helping out in Santa's Workshop, organizing around the thrift shop, sorting foods, or helping out in the office during their busiest time of the year. An extra pair of helping hands is always appreciated around the pantry!

I had the privlege of working at CUMAC through the AmeriCorps program. Both staff and volunteers go above and beyond to meet the needs of the community it serves. I was amazed by the hard work and dedication the director and other workers demonstrated on a daily basis to keep the organization functioning all in the name of changing people's lives. The warmth they showed me was the same they gave to clients and it was a joy to go there every day because of that. Food and clothing are essential but the amount of people today struggling to obtain both is outstanding. When you have these things you often take them for granted. However, when you don't, managing day to day life can seem impossible. By providing food and clothing to families they are really making a difference. I also appreciated the difference they made by educating the volunteers who came. A lot of people are unaware of the struggles people face day to day. CUMAC makes people aware and promotes a domino effect of giving back to others.

CUMAC feeds people and changes lives, not just the lives of recipients but also the lives of the donors and volunteers. We work to directly reduce hunger through providing groceries to those in need and we work to break the cycle of poverty thropugh our Tutoring and Literacy Center and through our advocacy for School breakfasts and our work at the county and state level. A specific event I want to share is when a single mother arrived last winter for food. Her children had tattered coats and no mittens on their hands. While the mother was getting her food, one of the employees went to the thrift shop and found coats and mittens for the children. The mother realized that people really care.