Mission Health has made a significant impact on food security in western North Carolina. This year, their Healthy Foods for Healthier Tomorrows initiative raised over 10,000 pounds of food. More than half of that—around 5,000 pounds—came from Mission Hospital and CarePartners, directly benefiting local organizations like MANNA FoodBank and Loving Food Resources in Asheville.
Greg Lowe, CEO of Mission Health, expressed pride in the effort, noting how it reflects the core mission of the organization: “people helping people.” This annual food drive involves hospitals collecting food to support local pantries, emphasizing the importance of community support in battling hunger.
Interestingly, the need for food donations is growing. Recent statistics show that food insecurity remains a challenge for many. In North Carolina, about 1 in 7 residents struggle with hunger, highlighting the importance of initiatives like this.
Beyond food drives, the Asheville community is also taking creative approaches to tackle hunger. For instance, local free street pantries and initiatives like ‘EAT’ cards offer innovative solutions to help those in need.
Mission Health’s contributions didn’t stop at food. They also donated $15,000 to MANNA FoodBank, further supporting their mission. This partnership illustrates how healthcare organizations can play a vital role in addressing social issues like hunger.
By working together, communities can create changes that ensure everyone has access to nutritious food. With continued efforts and support, we can hope for a future where fewer people face food insecurity.
For more insights on initiatives addressing hunger, visit Feeding America.
