FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. — As the government shutdown continues, many families are finding it hard to make ends meet. In Cumberland County, local relief programs are ramping up efforts to support those in need.
At Second Harvest Food Bank in Fayetteville, staff and volunteers are working hard to provide food and resources. Wesley Rushing, the pantry director at Gray Pond Baptist Church, shared that their pantry is struggling. He recently made a long trip to Second Harvest only to find the shelves mostly bare—a concerning reality for many.
David Griffin, the director of Second Harvest, expressed the urgency of the situation. With around 76,000 people relying on their services—a number that has risen since the shutdown—the demand is overwhelming. Griffin pointed out that earlier cuts of $2 million in government funding have further strained their ability to serve the community.
Despite these challenges, Rushing is thankful for the chance to help. He noted that just last Friday, they distributed about 120 to 130 bags of food, which is about 45 more than usual.
A bright spot in this situation is the surge in volunteers. Many furloughed workers are stepping up to lend a hand, showing that even during tough times, community spirit remains strong.
The increase in volunteerism is reflected in a recent study by the Corporation for National and Community Service, which found that communities facing challenges tend to band together and support one another. This spirit of unity can be vital during such uncertain times.
As we navigate through these hardships, the compassion of neighbors stands out. Each small effort makes a big difference for those struggling to get by. For more information on community support and resources, you can check out the Second Harvest Food Bank.
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