From Our CEO: Hunger doesn’t pause when attention fades — and neither can we.

As we step into a new year, I want to take a moment both to express our deep gratitude forall your support throughout a tough year — and to be completely honest about where we stand today.

Across central and eastern North Carolina, hunger continues to rise. 

More families are struggling to keep food on the table as the cost of living climbs — from groceries and rent to fuel and utilities. At the very same time, hunger relief networks like ours are facing unprecedented pressure. 

• We’re navigating significant cuts to federal hunger relief programs that have long been lifelines for families, seniors, and children.
• Millions of dollars have been cut in funds we useto purchase fresh food from local farms.
• Families are facing greater uncertainty around SNAP grocery support.
• And many are still reeling from the impacts of the longest government shutdown in US history.
• We’re also operating in the middle of an ongoing state budget impasse, placing even more food purchase funding at risk at a time when stability matters most. 

And all of this is happening while demand for food assistance keeps growing — and our costs to serve the community keep rising.

These challenges are real. But so is the hope.

Though it’s harder and harder to count on leadership in Washington, our community has stepped in to fill the gap in extraordinary ways. You gave generously. You volunteered your time and talents. You raised your voices to advocate for neighbors who too often go unheard. Together, you showed what’s possible when compassion turns into action. 

That collective energy and heart has carried us through incredibly difficult days. We need to keep the momentum going.

As we begin a new year, your support matters more than ever. Your time, your support, and your advocacy are what allow us to keep showing up for the hundreds of thousands of neighbors who are counting on us — no matter what challenges come next.

The winter holidays are a time when many of us think about the importance of a good meal and time with loved ones. The spirit of the season inspires incredible generosity — and for that we are truly grateful. But hunger doesn’t pause when attention fades. And neither can we. 

So thank you for standing with us. 

Thank you for believing in this work. And thank you for continuing to be part of a community that chooses care, dignity, and action — today and into the year ahead.