The Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina recently hosted a Pop-Up Market in Chadbourn, teaming up with the Annie Catherine Pridgen Community Development Foundation. This event took place at the Jerusalem Chapel Free Will Baptist Church and aimed to provide fresh food options to rural communities.
In these areas, access to healthy food can be limited. The Food Bank focuses on locations that lack resources like food pantries and soup kitchens. Isa Bailey, a coordinator with the Food Bank, notes, “The goal is to fill gaps in food access in the southeastern counties.” This initiative highlights the challenges many rural families face in obtaining nutritious food.
One notable volunteer was a 6-year-old named Jayden Lee. While many enjoyed their Saturday in other ways, he chose to help out. “It feels good being here cause I was working and doing so good,” he said, clearly proud of his contributions. Jayden was inspired by his Uncle Marlando, who hopes to teach him the importance of giving back. “When we instill that heart into our kids, they’re going to change the world for our future,” Marlando said.
Jayden was busy throughout the event, helping to load fresh fruits and vegetables into cars. The Pop-Up Market allows neighbors to stay in their vehicles while volunteers deliver groceries, making it easier for families to access food.
The impact of such initiatives is significant. According to a recent survey by Feeding America, food insecurity affects around 10.5% of households in the United States. Events like the Pop-Up Market can help bridge that gap by bringing food directly to those in need.
The mobile distribution has been running for a few months and is set to continue monthly. Organizers encourage early attendance since supplies are limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
For anyone interested in volunteering or learning more about food access initiatives in their area, the Food Bank CENC website offers plenty of information. Making a difference, even in small ways, can have a large impact on the community.
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Food Bank CENC,Chadbourn WECT,volunteer columbus county