The Barn - the Poorest of the Poor

In 1981, founder, Barney Welch decided to drop off some fish at the Missionaries of Charity in the South Bronx where his niece had begun her career as a nun with Mother Teresa. The nun who answered the door that night said “Thank God you’re here. We’ve been praying for food all day.” Barney’s life changed, he felt like he was raised right off the ground. He realized what waste there was in this country. He was the answer to their prayers for food, and this spurred him on. He became known by all as “Uncle Barney”.

Sadly, in January of 1992, Barney was disabled by a very serious auto accident. But Uncle Barney’s vision has continued uninterrupted thanks to the tireless commitment of many co-workers, volunteers, and benefactors. “The Barn” was incorporated to continue his work and today, there are over 150 unpaid volunteers who move more than 8 tons of food per week to feed the poor. All are inspired in our support of the Barn by Blessed Mother Teresa’s example and by Barney’s simple but powerful words…”trust in Divine Providence.”
Locally, The Barn for the Poorest of the Poor helps supply food to those in need within Monmouth County. Volunteers deliver food to Mother Teresa's Soup Kitchen, Franciscans of the Renewal as well as other local charities.

How Can You Help?

Some of the volunteer opportunities include:

• Drivers for Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday nights
• Packers at Delicious Orchards, 6pm every Friday and Saturday nights
• and other opportunities

To learn more, please email Gerard H. Duffy at  BarnForThePoor@gmail.com