CEO’s Message

Dear Friends:

At CROS Ministries, we believe every action, big or small, can help create a community where everyone has access to healthy food. Thanks to our volunteers, community partners, funders, growers, and donors, CROS is taking action every day. And as the need continues to grow, we are grateful to have you standing with us.

The 2025 - 2026 gleaning season is a wonderful example of what we can accomplish when a community comes together. This season, 3,278 volunteers participated in 186 gleaning events with 12 growing partners, recovering 402,681 pounds of fresh produce that might otherwise have gone to waste.

But gleaning is about so much more than pounds of produce. It’s about the grower who chooses to share a harvest rather than see it go to waste. It’s about the volunteer who gives up a morning to work in the fields. It’s about our food pantries and hot meal program receiving fresh fruits and vegetables. And it’s about the individual or family who brings home nutritious food produce they might not otherwise be able to afford.

Behind every hand-picked tomato, ear of corn, cucumber, or mango is a story and a common thread: people choosing to take action against hunger, one individual and one family at a time.

Our generous donors and supporters also make this work possible. The Community Foundation of Palm Beach and Martin Counties recently granted $90,000 to CROS and the Jim Moran Foundation is once again renewing their commitment of $180,000 for the next two years. The investment in our programs provides a vital lifeline for people facing rising living costs, fixed or insufficient incomes, and unexpected financial challenges. Continued and increased support helps us reach more communities and provide additional hunger relief throughout Palm Beach County.

During Hunger Action Month, I invite you to take action with us. Volunteer at one of our food pantries or with our hot meal program in Delray Beach. Host a food drive. Organize a gleaning group. Make a financial gift. Whatever action you choose, you are helping ensure that our neighbors have access to the healthy food they need.

Thank you for being part of the CROS community and for helping us turn compassion into action. Together, we can make sure no one has to face hunger alone.

With Gratitude and Hope,



Ruth Mageria
Chief Executive Officer