FoodBank of Monmouth and Ocean Counties

2001 Junior Humanitarian of the Year

We are so thrilled to honor - for the very first time - a junior humanitarian! When the idea was conceived, our overwhelming choice was a beautiful, thirteen-year-old who has taught us all so much about courage, grace under pressure and yes, the true spirit of humanitarianism. As Erin fought a courageous battle against a cancerous brain tumor last year, her strong will never faltered, her humor never deserted her, her family was tirelessly devoted, and her inborn spirit of generosity carried her through. She founded TOYS.CALM, a charity to collect toys for children at Robert Wood Johnson Hospital who are nervously facing surgery and hospitalization. She saw a need and worked to fill it. She also devotes her time to coaching 4th graders in basketball and giving speeches about facing serious illness.

We are honored to know Erin, her mother Laura, her dad Bill, and her 15-year-old brother Ryan.

Erin, you honor us by accepting this award.