With the federal government shutdown dragging on and no clear end in sight, a major impact hit Saturday, Nov. 1 — funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the country’s largest food assistance program, is set to run out. More than 9,000 Moore County residents receive SNAP assistance.
Here is a running list of ways to help the Food Bank of Central and Eastern NC and support local food pantries:
Donate Money and Time
:: Make a one-time or monthly contribution directly to the Food Bank of Central and Eastern NC. Every $1 helps provide 5 meals.
Donate Items
:: Donate canned and dry goods, paper products and cleaning supplies to the Food Bank of Central & Eastern NC. Here is a list of most-needed items.
:: Place unopened, unexpired food in the MoCo Freedge on W. Pennsylvania Avenue in Southern Pines, in front of the Moore County Coalition for Human Care. The fridge is accessible anytime, and all kinds of food is accepted.
:: Drop off nonperishable food items at the Southern Pines Public Library or the Southern Pines Fire Department.
:: Fill the mini food pantry at Aberdeen Lake Park, created and installed by Pinecrest High School student Eric Sabiston in 2022.
:: Support the West End United Methodist Church Food Pantry. The church’s efforts to feed the community started in 1993 and has since grown to a budget of $40k. With support from the Food Bank of CENC, Food Lion and others, it provides a large box of food bi-weekly to 200 families in need.
:: Help grow the food pantry at 7 Sparrows Boutique in Seven Lakes, where those in need can shop donated items for free. The boutique stocks nonperishables as well as home goods, clothing and toys.
:: Bring food donations to Crossroads Coffee which will go to the Vass Food Pantry.
Donate By Dining
:: Maisonette (a veteran-owned business in downtown Southern Pines) is donating 3% of its revenue to the Food Bank of Central and Eastern NC now through whenever the government reopens.
If You are in Need:
:: Embers BBQ is offering a free “heat and eat” meal to those in need. It will be given out cold and feature 1 lb of pulled pork, 1 lb of Mac-N-Cheese, 3/4 lb of Slaw, and 6 oz cup of BBQ sauce. Only 1 per week.
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