This year, it’s even harder to afford the basics in a season that promotes outsized spending. The United States enjoys unprecedented levels of prosperity when compared to other nations. Yet, there are hungry people in every county in every state. We’ve been talking a lot this year about how inflation has driven food costs by 420% since 2019 – making it harder for families and individuals to make ends meet. Add to that rising housing and fuel costs, and it’s easy to see why more people are looking for food resources. Inter-Faith Food Shuttle mobilizes the hands of hope that respond by feeding, teaching, growing, and cultivating innovative approaches to end hunger in our community. This season, our commitment to neighbors is amplified by a $100,000 match opportunity funded by 4 Others Foundation and Oak Foundation.
This generous funding opportunity will benefit families, children, and seniors throughout the Food Shuttle’s seven-county service area in central North Carolina. Individuals like Brenda Rogers who has more drive than most. Mrs. Rogers works part-time at Amazon, attends church, and gets regular exercise. Being blind is no barrier to her leading a full life. She enjoys the companionship of a loving family and her loyal guide dog, Al. Like many people within our counties of focus, Mrs. Rogers also benefits from the healthy food she receives through the Inter-Faith Food Shuttle.
Every two weeks, Mrs. Rogers and Al take a cab to the Blessings in Bags Mobile Market in southeast Raleigh, run by one of the 200 local Food Shuttle partners: Martin Street Baptist Church. “It really is a touch of kindness,” she says. “It helps me out with my budget quite a bit. The market makes sure I have food to eat. I love the fresh produce especially. Sometimes, I get a big cabbage and can split it with a neighbor or share my other groceries with them.” The Mobile Market’s impact has made an immeasurable difference in the lives of neighbors like Mrs. Rogers and others.
With generous support for programs that keep Mobile Markets and School Pantries stocked, Food Shuttle supporters ensure Mrs. Rogers and neighbors like her have a reliable source of food relief. With more and more families turning to the Food Shuttle, the Holiday Match promises to magnify the impact of all gifts made from December 1 to 31. This is your opportunity to brighten the holidays across Central NC. Make your Hands of Hope year-end gift by visiting our website.
