Hunger Free North Carolina's Mission: What We Do Different
One of the primary causes of food insecurity in North Carolina is access to quality, nutritious, affordable groceries, as many North Carolinians live in what's called a food dessert. According to a report from the US Department of Agriculture, about 2.3 million Americans, or about 2.2% of all US households, live more than one mile away from a supermarket and do not own a car. North Carolina is home to some of the largest food desserts in the country, with one area in east Greensboro ranking as the nation's 2nd largest.
These areas are not only lacking in affordable nutritious food from stores, but also existing food aid resources, such as food banks, are even harder to come by.
Hunger Free North Carolina's primary goal is getting food to the people and families in the areas that need it most. This will be done by setting up a distribution network of drivers to take groceries directly to individuals without means of transportation.
Our main growth needs going forward will be recruiting volunteer drivers and establishing consistent relationships with local food banks. Drivers are deployed in teams of at least two to ensure safety, and will be reimbursed for fuel usage when volunteering. All donations and proceeds from merchandise sales go towards reimbursing volunteer drivers, securing food supplies, and expansion.
Those in need of aid will be encouraged to apply through local outreach programs.