New Berlin Food Pantry Assistant Director Named Citizen Of Year

NEW BERLIN, WI— Barbara Jacob, the assistant director of the New Berlin Food Pantry, is the recipient of the 2020 New Berlin Citizen of the Year Award, Mayor Dave Ament announced.

Jacob has served as the pantry's assistant director for over a decade.

"Jacob started out at the pantry assisting with food distribution and then began soliciting and distributing food supplies in the fall, the release noted of her bio. Jacob also organizes Thanksgiving bags and Christmas baking bags.

Jacob responsibilities include recruiting and scheduling two dozen pantry volunteers. She has built relationships with area businesses and local donors to keep the shelves full.

Jacob also changed policies due to the pandemic. In mid-March, the pantry developed a contactless method of food delivery. Clients are not allowed inside but are asked to go through a drive-thru, similar to how restaurants were operating.

Jacob and her husband Ed have lived in New Berlin for over 30 years along with their two children. The family has been active members of the Eisenhower community and are members of St. Elizabeth Anne Seton.

Jacob has been a tireless volunteer for Parkinson’s Disease. She was very active in the annual “Moving Forward” event with Froedtert Hospital and spent many hours soliciting for and then assembling raffle baskets. Those efforts raised thousands of dollars over a seven year period.

The mayor will present the award at 2 p.m. Monday, Oct. 26th at New Berlin’s Community Center, 14750 W. Cleveland Ave. The presentation will take place in the Cleveland Room.

"Individuals or groups are encouraged to attend in support of this outstanding New Berlin resident who has given tirelessly to the community," the release said.