Danny’s Pantry 5K Raises Support for Families Struggling to Afford Food

Danny’s Pantry 5K Raises Support for Families Struggling to Afford Food

WEST ORANGE, N.J. — Community members are encouraged to welcome the spring season by participating in the Danny’s Pantry 5K on Sunday, June 14, 2026, at 8:30 a.m. at the Essex County South Mountain Recreation Complex, located at 3 Cherry Lane in West Orange, next to Turtle Back Zoo.

Danny’s Pantry was established by the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey in memory of Daniel Anderl, the beloved son of Judge Esther Salas and Mark Anderl. The pantry was created in recognition of the anniversary of Daniel’s tragic death after he was killed by a hostile litigant. Since that devastating loss, Judge Salas has continued serving the community with compassion, resilience, and dedication.

The pantry provides food staples and essential support to individuals and families connected to the federal court system, including participants in the Pretrial Opportunity Program and ReNew Program. The initiative reflects the federal court family’s ongoing commitment to helping families facing difficulty affording food and other hardships as they work toward long-term stability.

Participants in the 5K should check in at the Clipper Pavilion and are encouraged to arrive by 7:45 a.m. to pick up race numbers and event shirts. Parking will be available at 3 Cherry Lane, West Orange.

Registration for the event closes on June 12, 2026, at 12:00 a.m. EDT.

Participants can register online through RunSignup

Direct donations to support Danny’s Pantry may also be made through Danny’s Pantry

Organizers thank all participants and supporters for helping honor the memory of Daniel Anderl and supporting the mission of Danny’s Pantry and the Anderl family.