Taking care of neighbors. 9 Food Drive.

Twice a month, WeCare ministry teams up with Hickory Grove United Methodist church members to serve neighbors who are living on a fixed budget and need food assistance. Each family receives a food box of nonperishable goods, fresh meat (when available) and access to the WeCare clothing store – all free of cost.

While the ministry relies on monetary donations from their congregation to fund their nutrition and clothing services, they accredit their partnership with Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina for keeping food on their shelves.

“We are able to purchase a lot more food from Second Harvest Food Bank and provide meats and bread that we wouldn’t otherwise be able to afford,” said Kim Long, chair of WeCare. “Prior to signing up with Second Harvest Food Bank, there were many times we struggled to obtain enough food from our congregation to support the needs of our clients.”

Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina supplies food and grocery items to charitable agencies that assist people in need.

“They may not be able to eat if they didn’t receive these services,” Long said. “They would have to make a decision to eat, or pay bills. This fills that gap that they have.”

Because the food bank supplies food and essential grocery items to over 700 agencies feeding hungry people in 19 counties, a monetary donation helps the organizations. For every $1 that the food bank receives, it distributes seven pounds of food.

From April 29 to June 8, you can help feed area families by donating canned or nonperishable food items during the 9 Food Drive. Donations are accepted at any Ashley HomeStore, Showmars, Hendrick Honda and E.R. Plumbing Services.

The 9 Food Drive, benefiting Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina, comes at an especially critical time, as area emergency pantries served by the food bank report increases in requests for assistance during the summer and giving is at a low point for the year.

“Your donation is going to someone who is truly in need. We’re helping those who can’t do this on their own,” Long said.

Learn more about the 9 Food Drive at

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If your organization or business would like to get involved or help with 9 Food Drive, or you have an inspiring story to share, please email Kevin Campbell, WSOC-TV community affairs manager, at

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