Statement of Purpose:
Families handicapped by hunger are more likely to fail in their pursuit of life’s dreams. The Fuquay Varina Emergency Food Pantry is a faith-based organization whose mission is to remove that handicap for as many families as possible within this area and has served since 2001.
History:
The Fuquay Varina Emergency Food Pantry was incorporated as a nonprofit, faith-based organization in September, 2001. A number of churches were, at the time, striving to individually address the problem of hunger in the western Wake, western Johnston and northern Harnett counties. All were well intended, however the results were quite meager considering the magnitude of the problem. Realizing this great shortfall, a number of these churches banded together, consolidated their resources and created one central Food Pantry to serve clients throughout this area.
Located on West Academy Street in Fuquay, the Food Pantry occupies approximately 1,900 square feet of floor space. It is open to serve clients every Tuesday morning and Thursday afternoon throughout the year, providing a wholesome wagon load of food including fresh produce, fresh bakery, deli foods, frozen meats, canned goods and personal hygiene items. We strive to provide enough food to feed a family for a full week, and clients can receive this full service every 28 days. For special holidays such as Thanksgiving, Christmas and sometimes Easter, clients receive a turkey or ham and a special bag filled with side dishes and pantry staples.
Beginning with a few dozen clients per month in 2001, the volume has steadily increased over the years. We currently serve over 450 families per month. When available, we distribute space heaters during the winter months and fans during the summer months. We also assist with the delivery of gently used appliances and furniture to families in need.
Support:
Financial support for the Food Pantry derives from donations made by individuals, churches and organizations, and through grants. Food is received from various programs offered by the Food Bank of Central and Eastern NC (approximately 60%), numerous food drives put on by individuals, area schools, churches and neighborhoods (20%), and by food pantry volunteers using donated funds to purchase food each week from local supermarkets (20%).
Who We Serve:
The Food Pantry operates as a drive-through pantry and provides full service food distribution to residents of Fuquay Varina, Willow Springs, parts of Holly Springs, and Angier residents living in Wake and Johnston Counties. We are 100% volunteer based and our continued operations depend on the ongoing generosity and charity of our community, which have never been in short supply.