URBAN MINISTRIES of Wake County Issues Call to Action as Food Insecurity Climbs to Critical Levels
URBAN MINISTRIES of Wake County Issues Call to Action as Food Insecurity Climbs to Critical Levels
RALEIGH, N.C. – As our community faces mounting inflation, cost of living increases, and economic pressure, Urban Ministries is issuing an urgent call to action to address food insecurity across Wake County.
Approximately 82,000 federal employees in North Carolina are at immediate risk of receiving no paycheck on November 1st due to the government shut down.
At the same time, federal nutrition programs – including Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – are expected to pause in November, putting tens of thousands of North Carolinians in dire need of assistance.
In Wake County alone, nearly 90,918 individuals currently receive SNAP benefits. The interruption of that support will dramatically increase demand on local resources – particularly food pantries and emergency meal programs.
The Urban Ministries food pantry is preparing for a surge in need, and we are calling on our community to help us provide nutritious food to our neighbors in need.
How Can You Help?
- Donate Food or Funds: Non-perishable food items, fresh produce, and monetary gifts help us streamline purchasing power and maintain consistency in distribution. Consider hosting a food drive amongst your friends and neighbors.
- Volunteer Your Time: Help us stock shelves, pack bags, or distribute food boxes.
- Share This Message: Spread the word among neighbors, faith communities, service groups, and local businesses. The ripple effect of awareness is crucial.
“I come from a family who benefited from free lunch, food pantries, and SNAP benefits growing up. Even though North Carolina is known for agriculture, too many of our neighbors still go hungry. With the government shutdown, things can go from bad to worse very quickly for hard-working families and children,” said Jessica N. Holmes, Executive Director of Urban Ministries of Wake County. “Now’s the time for thoughts and prayers and collective action. If you are able, please donate or volunteer. If you’re facing hardship yourself, know we are a resource for you.”
How to Donate:
- Visit our donation page to get started.
- Mail checks to: Urban Ministries, 1390 Capital Blvd., Raleigh, NC 27610
- Drop-off food items at our food pantry Monday – Thursday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
About Urban Ministries: Since 1981, Urban Ministries of Wake County has been a trusted neighbor helping families in crisis meet their most basic needs — food, medicine, and shelter. Through its Food Pantry, Open Door Clinic, and Helen Wright Center for Women, the organization provides compassionate care and critical support to thousands of Wake County residents each year. Urban Ministries is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and all contributions are tax-deductible.