Helping Hands Food Pantry in Charlotte is taking a big step to fight hunger in Eaton County. They plan to invest $400,000 to double their storage space. The new expansion will include refrigerated and frozen storage. This move aims to better meet the growing demands of the community.
The pantry, led by Executive Director Amanda Thompson, is committed to helping families in need. Thompson shared, “We are increasing our capacity to provide for more families.” With the expansion, they hope to improve food accessibility for more individuals.
Robin Vedder, a dedicated volunteer at the pantry, knows firsthand how important this work is. “I’ve been there. I understand what it means to need food assistance,” she said, holding back tears. She has moved from being a recipient of help to someone who provides support to others. Her passion to help comes from her own experiences, making her connection to clients stronger.
Recent statistics show that food insecurity has affected 10.5% of U.S. households in 2022, according to the USDA. This highlights the importance of organizations like Helping Hands, which are critical in their communities.
In addition to expanding storage, the pantry plans to partner with local businesses to strengthen community ties. Such collaborations can enhance food quality and variety for clients.
The helping hand from the community is vital. The pantry is actively seeking grants to finance the expansion, hoping to complete the project by next year. As Vedder said, “It’s tough for many; I just want to make it easier for them.”
For more information, visit the USDA’s official website on food security here.
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