Manna from Heaven Hosts Their Annual Fall Brunch, Helping Hands 2026 Award Ceremony
Photo courtesy of Manna from Heaven
BY KADAYSHA LITTLE | For AC JosepH Media
PITTSGROVE – Tonya May-Avent, one of more than a dozen awardees at the annual Manna From Heaven Fall Brunch on Sept. 12, said she was moved to be one of the people recognized by the nonprofit.
The Helping Hands Celebration 2026 was hosted by Angelia Edwards, co-founder and executive director of Manna From Heaven, which feeds the underserved locally suffering from hunger and poverty.
“I do feel it is my honor and my privilege to be able to serve others who may not have the privilege I was born into,” May-Avent said as she accepted her honor from Helping Hands Celebration 2026.
“I want to encourage everyone today as well, if you live a life of privilege as well, just to show compassion as you walk by and see someone else who may not have what you have” she continued.
May-Avent is an award-winning author, accomplished project manager and leader who has served the community through her career. She is currently the deputy director of the Office of Project and Program Management within the New Jersey Department of Children and Families.
She was one of 15 people recognized for the contributions in the community by Manna from Heaven. The annual fall brunch, held inside The Grove at Centerton, with the purpose to honor citizens who have accomplished things that have created meaningful change within the community.
Edwards, a Bridgeton school board member who is running for city council, introduced every honoree by sharing her personal admiration and connection with them.
The full list of honorees Anthony Ashmen, Crystal Brown, Herb Godfrey, Dr. Rhonda Hazell, Mayor Albert Kelly, Rudolph Luisi, Tonya May-Avent, Antwan McClellan, Erik Simonsen, Roberta Stewart, Dr. Chris Tavani, Sandy Taylor, Michael Testa Sr., Martha Torres and Lisa Williams. All honorees were awarded for their contributions in their community, business, health, politics or education.
The banquet hall was decorated and accessorized with packaged popcorn goods from Johnson’s Popcorn for guests. Dr. Beverly Mondey-Collins provided a musical performance featuring keyboard and vocals. With music selections, three-course meals and a scenic view, guests were encouraged to take part in all elements of the celebration.
Even more, Edwards reminded guests in her welcome message the true intention of the gathering.
“As we celebrate our honorees and their accomplishments, let us remember the greater purpose that brings us together… helping others and strengthening our communities,” Edwards said.
Roberta L. Stewart shared a passionate acceptance speech, thanking her support system for aiding her in her journey. She is the supervisor of investigation for the Institutional Abuse Investigation Unit in Vineland in addition to being an adjunct professor at both Montclair State University and Cumberland County Community College.
Stewart had two tables of family and friends show up to the annual fall brunch to celebrate her accomplishments.
“My mother didn’t have an education, so she pushed me to make sure I got every degree that was possible and I got ‘em,” Stewart remarked. She accredited a lot of her success and ability to serve others to her support system.
“I turned it around, and I stand before you with titles, that when I say I earned them, my mother pushed them.”
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