‘Paddles For The Pantry’ A Big Hit Again

Posted November 17th 2025

The second annual Paddles for the Pantry pickleball fundraiser, organized by Teresa DiPeso and Kathy Colfer, was held Nov. 1 at the Avalon Pickleball Courts. The event included 52 participants and raised $3,000 for the Redeemer Health Food Pantry and the Concerned Citizens of Whitesboro’s Vera Smith Food Pantry.

Additionally, more than 200 pounds of canned foods were collected during the event to be donated to these two organizations.

Players and sponsors from across Cape May and Atlantic counties participated in the event, which featured an individual round-robin format designed to encourage camaraderie and new friendships on the courts. Fifty-two women competed in two divisions, with prizes awarded to first- and second-place winners.

“Months of planning go into this tournament, but we’re blessed with incredible community support,” said DiPeso. “From our sponsors, players and volunteers to the City of Avalon and everyone who donated, we couldn’t do it without them.”

The event had its genesis last year when a volunteer from the Redeemer Health Food Pantry in Ocean View approached Colfer and DiPeso about organizing a pickleball tournament to support local families. The two immediately stepped up to help. DiPeso created the event’s name and logo, and together she and Colfer quickly organized the inaugural tournament, which drew 68 players and raised $2,200 in its first year.

DiPeso and Colfer hope to make Paddles for the Pantry a lasting tradition that grows each year, helping more neighbors in need while bringing the community together through friendly competition and shared purpose.