Nourishing Communities: The Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina

Mission and Impact

The Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina (Food Bank CENC) stands as a beacon of hope in the fight against hunger in a 34-county region spanning from the Piedmont to the coast. As the largest organization of its kind in eastern North Carolina, Food Bank CENC has the capacity to distribute over 120 million pounds of food annually, reaching an estimated 550,000 individuals.

Hunger in Our Region

According to Feeding America, North Carolina ranks 11th in the nation for food insecurity, with 13.8% of households experiencing food insecurity and 5.5% experiencing very low food security. These numbers translate to over 1.5 million people in the Food Bank CENC service area struggling to put food on the table.

Food Distribution Network

Food Bank CENC operates an extensive network of food distribution channels to ensure that food reaches those who need it most. The network includes:

Programs and Services

In addition to food distribution, Food Bank CENC offers a range of programs and services to address the root causes of hunger:

• Children's Programs: School breakfast and lunch programs, after-school snacks, and summer feeding programs aim to nourish children and support their academic success.
• Senior Programs: Meals on Wheels, congregate meal programs, and senior food boxes provide nutritious food to elderly residents.
• Community Outreach: Mobile food pantries, farmers' market vouchers, and emergency food assistance programs reach vulnerable individuals in underserved areas.

How You Can Help

There are many ways to support the Food Bank CENC's mission:

• Food Donations: Donate non-perishable food items at one of our partner agencies or at Food Bank CENC's distribution center.
• Financial Donations: Monetary donations help the Food Bank CENC purchase food and support its programs.
• Volunteerism: Volunteer your time to sort food, pack boxes, or assist with community outreach programs.
• Advocacy: Contact your local representatives to advocate for policies that address hunger and food insecurity.

Stories of Impact

Sarah's Story:

Sarah, a single mother of two, lost her job during the pandemic. With no income and nowhere to turn, she feared that her children would go hungry. Desperate, she reached out to the Food Bank CENC for help. Thanks to the food assistance she received, Sarah and her children were able to make ends meet until she found a new job.

John's Story:

John is a retired veteran living on a fixed income. As his health declined, he struggled to prepare meals for himself. The Food Bank CENC's Meals on Wheels program delivered hot meals to John's home, ensuring that he received the nutrition he needed to stay healthy and independent.

Maria's Story:

Maria is a grandmother who raises her three grandchildren. With all three children attending school, Maria found it difficult to provide them with nutritious meals. The Food Bank CENC's after-school snack program provided the children with healthy snacks, freeing up Maria's budget for other essential expenses.

What We Learn:

These stories highlight the devastating impact of hunger and the transformative power of food assistance. They remind us that:

• Hunger is a complex issue that affects people from all walks of life.
• Food assistance programs are essential for alleviating hunger and improving quality of life.
• We all have a responsibility to support our neighbors in need.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When donating to a food bank, it's important to avoid these common mistakes:

• Donating Expired or Contaminated Food: Check expiration dates and discard any food that is past its prime or has been compromised.
• Donating Damaged or Unwanted Food: Only donate food that you would be willing to eat yourself. Avoid donating food that is damaged, stale, or past its peak freshness.
• Donating Items That Can't Be Distributed: Some items, such as homemade food, alcohol, and perishable dairy products, cannot be accepted by food banks.
• Donating Toys or Clothing: While these items may be appreciated by other organizations, they are not suitable for food banks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I find a food pantry in my area?

A: Visit Food Bank CENC's website or call their helpline at (919) 833-1050.

Q: Can I volunteer with Food Bank CENC?

A: Yes, volunteers play a vital role in the Food Bank's operations. Visit their website to learn about volunteer opportunities.

Q: What are the most needed food items?

A: Non-perishable items such as canned fruits and vegetables, peanut butter, pasta, and rice are always in high demand.

Q: Can I donate food directly to those in need?

A: While it's admirable to want to help directly, it's best to donate through food assistance organizations like Food Bank CENC. This ensures that food is distributed equitably and efficiently.

Q: Do you accept financial donations?

A: Yes, financial donations are essential for the Food Bank CENC to purchase food and support its programs.

Q: How can I advocate for policies that address hunger?