Southern states face higher rates of food insecurity than any other region in the United States. Here in North Carolina, one in every nine of us doesn’t have consistent and reliable access to sufficient food for our families. These challenges are even deeper in Black and Latinx communities throughout the state, where hunger is two-to-three times more prevalent.
Addressing hunger in our most hard-hit communities is the surest path to reach our vision of a future where no one goes hungry. That’s why the Food Bank has placed a greater focus on sourcing and distributing culturally familiar and meaningful foods throughout the region. And Pop Up Markets are among our most successful initiatives to connect communities with the resources we need to thrive.
Through partnerships with local organizations like El Pueblo, WAKE Up and Read, Consulate of Mexico, Wake County Smart Start, and more, the Food Bank’s Pop Up Markets bring fresh produce, dairy, and protein directly to communities — along with children’s books and information on other resources to support families. New Latinx-focused markets launched last summer, with nearly 1,500 people participating in a single inaugural event. That number grew to more than 1,700 people in just a few short months, with a significant increase in households supporting children or seniors by the fall. Combined, this Pop Up Market location distributed enough fresh produce to support more than 10,000 meals — with seasonal fruits and vegetables that included watermelon, broccoli, bananas, butternut squash, and apples.
Our Pop Up Markets wouldn’t be possible without hosts like Raleigh Parks & Recreation, who give time, energy and space for community members to gather. With support from local governments and community organizations, we’re expanding dates and locations regularly throughout the region. Visit our Pop Up Market page to learn more and get involved in a market near you.
This blog originally appeared in our 2023 Impact Report. Read the full report here.
