Local food drives prepare for SNAP benefit halt, federal shutdown

Due to the ongoing federal government shutdown, SNAP benefits are scheduled to stop Saturday, Nov. 1, for households in the area unless federal funding is restored. The Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina (FBCENC) has released a list of “most-needed items” to support food drives and donation efforts during the funding lapse.

Southern Pines Food Bank Locations:

• Sandhills Moore Coalition: 1500 W. Indiana Ave., Southern Pines, NC 28387

• Southern Pines UMC: 175 Midland Road, Southern Pines, NC 28387

• Saint Anthony’s Catholic Church: 320 N. Ashe St., Southern Pines, NC 28387

• The Worship Center: 150 Eastman Road, Southern Pines, NC 28387

Trinity AME Zion Church and the Southern Pines Land and Housing Trust are hosting a food drive to support local families during this time of need. Donations will be accepted at the Trinity Community Outreach Center (TCOC), 972 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines.

Donation Drop-off Times:

• Wednesday, Oct. 29 | 12–4 p.m.

• Thursday, Oct. 30 | 10 a.m.–12 p.m.

• Friday, Oct. 31 | 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

Food Giveaway:

Saturday, Nov. 1 | 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Volunteers and bag donations are needed. Organizers encourage donors to bring reusable bags if possible. Certain limits may apply to ensure all families are served.

The Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina has released a list of its most-needed items for local food drives. Donations of nonperishable foods and essential household goods help support families experiencing food insecurity.

Most-needed food items include canned fruits and vegetables, meats, beans, soups, pasta, rice, cereal, nut butters, and shelf-stable milk. The food bank also welcomes paper products, diapers, soap, toothpaste, cleaning supplies, and other hygiene items. Pop-top cans and microwavable cups are preferred. Donors are asked to choose items that are low in sodium and trans fat, sugar-free, and not in glass containers.

Local food drives seek donations for SNAP benefit halt, federal shutdown

Graphic from Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina.

How You Can Help:

• Donate any of the items above at food bank locations.
• Share this article with friends/neighbors so folks know the need is urgent.
• Visit foodbankcenc.org for help in your area or to find partner agencies.

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Contributed by the Town of Southern Pines.