For the last 35 years, Inter-Faith Food Shuttle has been committed to fighting hunger in North Carolina through our mission to Feed, Teach, Grow, and Cultivate. “It takes a village” as they say, and it is only through partnerships and connections within our community that we continue to make a profound impact.
This month, we kicked off our Spring Match fundraising campaign, thanks to the generosity of North Raleigh United Methodist Church (UMC). North Raleigh UMC launched the Blessing Initiative after receiving a generous endowment last year. Through this grant, they have a vision to “lift up our neighbors near and far, to feed more of the hungry, to shelter more of the homeless, and to provide comfort and care to more of the sick and desperate” (nrumc.org). In our second year of support from the church, we are fortunate to be a part of this journey.
Vital to North Raleigh UMC is their dedication to serving individuals with significant need. They are very dedicated to the work we do with Grocery Bags for Seniors and actively encourage their congregation to volunteer at Inter-Faith Food Shuttle. Individuals like Russ and Linda Davison are prime examples of this support, lending their time to pack grocery bags regularly.
Pam Hartigan, our Community Liaison at North Raleigh UMC, has been instrumental in fostering our growing relationship with the church. From donating produce harvested at their community garden to facilitating connections even before the Blessing Initiative was conceived, Pam's dedication has been evident throughout. Pam's palpable energy and dedication to serving neighbors facing hunger make her the ideal person for this crucial liaison role. Her knowledge and support have been essential to strengthening the relationship between our organizations through the Blessing Initiative, allowing us to amplify our impact.
Another member of North Raleigh UMC, Scott Striegel, shared enthusiasm for the Food Shuttle’s efforts to “Grow Goodness” this spring. Scott serves as Chair of the Blessing Initiative committee and let us know there was enthusiasm among the members early on about the idea of North Raleigh UMC coming alongside the Food Shuttle as our Spring Match funder.
As we reflect on our partnership with North Raleigh UMC, we're filled with appreciation for the opportunities it will provide to serve more neighbors. Together, we will persist in “Growing Goodness,” nurturing a future where every individual is nourished and supported.
Join us in Growing Goodness and North Raleigh UMC will double your gift now through June 15th.