Today we’d like to introduce you to Stefanie Wahl.
Hi Stefanie, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
10 years ago I was at a music festival with little spending money and a box of cereal as my weekend food, I searched for the utensils needed to eat and found some friends along the way. This inspired me to build connection with the strangers that would soon become friends and I started bringing multiple boxes of cereal to feed some camp mates. Each year the amount of cereal boxes I brought increased until I was bringing hundreds of boxes to feed some friends. My dear friend Alyssa also saw my attempt to feed the masses and together we joined forces and turned this small dream into a NJ Non Profit, Stef’s Cereal Bar. Now we provide free cereal buffets at different music festivals, community events, and just about anywhere we can to make a difference in our community and feed those facing hunger insecurities in our area. We provide a fully stocked cereal buffet with all varieties of cereals, and different milks including dairy free and plant based options. We make sure to provide lots of options so everyone can feel welcome to a meal.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Not always, when I started Stef’s Cereal Bar I had ample time, some of my biggest struggles I run into are managing my schedule as a mom to a toddler, working full time and running a home. Trying to juggle all of this can often be stressful but well worth the struggle. Thankfully we have an amazing team of volunteers to help Alyssa and I bring Stef’s Cereal Bar to as many events as we can!
Rising costs from inflation have made things very tough, so many things have gone up and that has been the biggest challenge. The price of milk and cereal is an all time high. Our organization is funded by community support so it has been alot to learn about sponsorships, partnerships and grants to help keep Stef’s Cereal Bar going. We are truly grateful for all of the support we have received from the community, everyone working together really does make a difference.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Stef’s Cereal Bar is my NJ Non-Profit 501(c)3 and I am certain there isn’t anything quite like it around. What sets us apart from other vendors is the fact that everything in our booth is free for all to enjoy. We want everyone to have access to a meal regardless of having any money in their pocket. During festivals, it is also kept open 24/7 so when all of the food vendors are not operating we are available for anyone to eat, at anytime.
Stef’s Cereal Bar has a focus on harm reduction and providing a safe place for attendees to enjoy their meal. We want everyone to feel welcome and right at home, and be able to sit and eat at our table! We like to think of Stef’s Cereal Bar as a bright beacon in the night with the light to guide you to a delicious bowl of cereal! Sometimes to feel better you just need something to fill your belly!
Community outreach is also a huge part of Stef’s Cereal Bar. We work with different organizations and food banks where we provide milk and cereal to fill the shelves of the food pantries. We love working with fellow organizations that share the same interest to feed anyone in need. Our goal is to help the community and find ways for everyone to work together. We strive to provide resources to those experiencing hunger insecurities, helping those experiencing hardship and raising awareness to at risk youth. We hope by providing cereal it brings out the inner child and creates happy memories during those hard times.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
I was always very outgoing and always wanted to be the star of the show. I had always loved getting involved with school activities and events throughout the community. Since I was little I have always wanted to help where I could. Music has always held an important spot in my heart, I grew up singing and live music really impacted my life.
Shortly after attending my first music festival I grew to love fire spinning. Being able to perform to live music while being immersed in the flames is something magical and one of my favorite things to do!
Pricing:
- Donations are always appreciated but never expected
- Free!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.stefscerealbar.org/
- Instagram: @stefscerealbar
- Facebook: Stefs Cereal Bar
- Other: @stefscerealbar TIKTOK
