Questions Fate of ‘Free Meal Center’

To The Editor:
As I drive by the “Free Meal Center ” on Rte. 9 in Burleigh , Middle Township , I wonder what has happened to this project . It was a noble idea, hatched by Wildwood Crest realtor Douglas Jewell, but the building sits bare and vacant. It’s been about three year’s worth of solicitations for donations of time, labor and money from the local citizenry – yielding nothing but three years of delays and promises not kept. Although the site has been plagued by a rash of burglaries and thefts, the failure to open the center cannot be attributed to them. Nor can the necessity to upgrade the physical property be cause for this calamitous ongoing saga.
Although over $65,157 was raised through various events and over $20,000 worth of material was donated by Home Depot, as well as several thousand dollars’ worth of free labor provided by local volunteers, the building still stands idle. We were told that $50,000 had to be raised for a down payment by March 31st, 2012 – presumably to the current owner, Mayville, LLC of Langhorne, Pa . Subsequently, the Free Meal Center was ordered to vacate the premises on April 1st.
Now we are told that an anonymous “benefactor” will be coming to the rescue and will purchase the building (and donate same) once this “benefactor” realizes an expected investment payoff. This is akin to waiting for your rich uncle to croak so you can finally afford to take that long wished for, trip to Bora Bora once the will is probated.
There is an inherent danger for such optimism. Suppose this “benefactor” dies intestate prior to the expected windfall and fails to mention his (or her) wishes to the greedy relatives who, like me, wish to go to Bora Bora. Suppose the seller raises the price and/or finds another buyer. Suppose the seller sues the Free Meal Center for changing the premises without authorization.
Curiously, there is a vexing question which was never answered . Why was this location chosen in the first place? Certainly, there is a greater need in the Wildwoods – from where Jewell has his business. I do not doubt the well – intentioned Jewell for his charitable desire to fill an urgent need. Our county, indeed, the world, needs more people with his compassionate vision
However, after three years, I think it’s time to turn this project over to a true professional who can make this venture less dependent on chance. The hungry among us shouldn’t have to wait in line, three long years for a free meal. This is an especially bitter reminder during the holiday season.
JOHN O’DONNELL
Court House