ACS Establishes Strong Presence on ‘Route 1’

Story by Stephen Lee

Since 2012, the New Jersey Conference Adventist Community Services (ACS), located in Lawrenceville, has steadily established a strong presence within nearby Mercer County communities. Fondly known by area locals as the “Adventists on Route 1,” this location serves as a vital hub for community support, housing both a free community pantry and a thrift store.

The free pantry is a cornerstone of the ACS outreach efforts, currently serving an estimated 700 Mercer County households. These households include a diverse mix of seniors aged 55 and older, refugees, non-English speakers and individuals enrolled in mental health, behavioral and housing programs. Each month, the pantry supports approximately 1,400 adults and 1,000 children, providing essential food and resources to those in need.

In addition to its pantry services, ACS operates a thrift store that offers affordable goods to the public, further supporting the community and funding ACS initiatives.

ACS also hosts annual spring and autumn sidewalk sales, inviting neighbors to join in and sell their wares alongside ACS on the front lawn. These sales have proven to be highly effective in fostering community engagement and creating opportunities for residents to interact and build relationships with each other, local nonprofit agencies and businesses.

Through these initiatives, the New Jersey Conference ACS has become a vital and beloved part of the Mercer County community, embodying the spirit of service and outreach.