With the government shutdown, there has been quite a bit of news about SNAP (otherwise known as food stamps) not being distributed beginning November 1. PUMC’s Missions team has been in communication with our food partner, Nourish Up, and we are learning the impact this will have to an already food insecure sector of Mecklenburg County. There is an urgent call for action, and we want to assure the congregation that we are responding accordingly. Here’s what can be done RIGHT NOW:
Educate yourself. 140,000 people in Mecklenburg County rely on SNAP averaging $187 per person. That’s more than $20 Million in food assistance at risk. Follow this link for more: Snap Benefits at Risk
Contact Lawmakers. Urge them to end the shutdown.
Donate Food. Priority needs are canned meat, canned fruit, canned vegetables, pasta, and cereal. Note: Please donate with care - our neighbors deserve the same quality food you’d serve at your own table, rather than an unwanted pantry clean out. For immediate impact, take your donations directly to Nourish Up at 901 Carrier Drive, Charlotte, NC, Monday -Friday from 8:30 AM to 4 PM. You can also order directly from their Amazon wish list and have it shipped directly to them.
Donate Money: To make a monetary donation, write your check to Providence UMC and put Nourish Up in the memo.
We are currently working with Nourish Up to prepare a church-wide Food Drive during November. Stay tuned for more information. We are also exploring other ideas for how we can assist those neighbors in our community during this desperate time.
Have any questions? Please contact the Rev. Brandon Dirks, Minister of Missions & Outreach, HERE.