Jersey Shore Relief on the Thai Elephant Food Truck in Montclair

The Thai Elephant Food Truck, often seen at lunchtime at Montclair High School, and evenings at either the Walnut Street Train Station, or, in front of Olive That and More, played an important role in Sandy Relief starting while the power was still out. But, they are continuing their good work, and will reward their customers for being a part of this effort.

Right after the storm the truck made its way to Jersey City and, casting aside its usual menu, served up free coffee and hot cocoa to residents who were without power. At times the glow of the Thai Elepant truck was the only light in a neighborhood. (They even became a mobile charging station for phones.)

Shortly thereafter, the team on the truck started making runs to the shore areas that were most gravely affected by the storm briging and serving donated food. While most of us have gotten our lives back in order here in the suburbs, the folks on the Aroy-D truck know just how bad things are for people in the affected areas, and they continue to make runs to the shore feedin

g people, and at times lending a hand in the rebuilding and recovery efforts.

Between shore runs, the truck plied the streets of Montclair offering their usual menu of great Thai food. I've known about the shore runs and have sought out the truck to support their business as they do so much to support

new friends they are just meeting for the first time. I'd love to say get the drunken noodles, but then I'd forget the Pad Thai, and if I mentioned the Masaman Curry I might forget the Tom Kha soup. They are all brilliant, and picking out a favorite is challenging, so go several times, try everything, and leave a comment below about what you loved most.

On January 27th, the Elephant will be goi

ng back down the shore to provide food AND needed supplies to the workers rebuilding the shore. Until that time, Elefans (fans of the Thai Elephant) can bring supplies to the truck any day and get $2 off your order in exchange for your much needed donation.

 Where will the truck be today? Follow them on twitter to find out https://twitter.com/Aroy_D or call at  (201) 474-5432 to find out and place an order for pick up.

A Tip Can Change A Family At Hunger Construction Food Truck

In November we were all saddened by the loss of Shegan Rubin of Hunger Construction. Whether a first time customer or a regular, Shegan had a way of making everyone feel like the most welcomed person in the world, if only for a few moments while ordering a spud.

As details emerge of the events of that sad day, we learned that some hot shot cop engaged in a high speed chase through residential areas. The suspect lost control of his car, struck other cars, which in turn struck Shegan who was simply walking on the sidewalk.

Our grief was further met with frustration as we learned that as he made his transition, Shegan left behind two children, ages 10 and 3, who now only have their mother to care for them. The Montclair food community cried, and mourned, and offered condolences.

Now we have a chance to offer Hope.

Now through Christmas, all tips left on the Hunger Construction truck will be given to Shegan Rubin's family. To find the Hunger Construction food truck, simply follow them on twitter at @hungerconstruct

Of course if you're in a generous mood, but not in the mood for one of the best stuffed baked potatoes in the country, feel free to drop off a 'tip' for Shegan's family.

Shegan Rubin, of Montclair's Hunger Construction, Tragically Killed

Shegan Rubin (far left)We are very sad to share the news, according to The Star Ledger, that Shegan Rubin, 32, of Montclair, was killed on Saturday evening by a car fleeing a State Trooper.

I met Shegan through his work on the Hunger Construction food truck. We shot a video with the crew in early November, and Shegan was his enthusiastic, magnetic self.  His tragic end seems so surreal.

Our condolences to his family, friends and co-workers at Hunger Construction.