MERK OF NEW JERSEY, INC.

I am Jack Barlow, a Life Scout from Troop 204 in Jackson, NJ. I am setting up this GoFundMe regarding my Eagle Scout Service Project. My project is to acquire and fit up a MERK vehicle, or Mobile Emergency Response Kitchen. This truck would be deployed out to disaster relief and extended emergency deployments to provide meals for first responders.

The project is definitely a fundraising-intensive one in this beginning stage. Smaller groups and foundations have been supportive so far, but I'm hoping this GoFundMe will attract individuals to lend support.

Some very exciting news is that a local foundation has offered to match my fundraising with a $ 50,000 grant. This would fully fund my project and get us to build the truck much sooner. I even have a specific truck being held right now that the dealer is heavily discounting, so it's very close to my original budget for a used one.

The matching grant offer will expire soon so, every dollar amount will make a difference! I hope you consider helping out.

There is an existing MERK charter in Paramus, and we will be the first Chapter. They are a 501(c)3 charitable organization and I'm hoping to get our first truck for this Chapter on the road. Based in Jackson, NJ, we will serve the Jersey Shore area. The existing unit serves North Jersey and has 3 vehicles (one is pictured above) and a trailer. All MERK teams are operated by local ScoutingBSA Scouts and adult leaders and are all volunteers. My Troop is excited to get our first truck in service.