While the coronavirus is still very much at large in North Carolina, a local Holly Springs church is stepping up to help the community.
Holly Springs United Methodist Church volunteered to be the Holly Springs site for an emergency food distribution program offered through the Western Regional Food Security Action Group – a division of the Human Services Department of Wake County. Since March 17, every Monday through Thursday evening at 6:30 p.m., volunteers hand out meals to those affected by COVID-19.
The volunteers—from Holly Springs United Methodist Church, Oasis Church and Kirk of Kildaire Presbyterian Church—serve an average of 200 people per evening. The program is in partnership with local food vendors, so Boston Market individually pre-boxed meals of primarily a meat and a vegetable are offered to anyone who shows up at the church.
“We see different people every night,” said Holly Springs United Methodist Church Rev. Jim Littleton. “We don’t check IDs or ask for any paperwork. We trust that it’s difficult to ask for help, and we’re going to give it without asking any questions.”
Additionally, the Western Regional Food Security Action Group stations an on-site supervisor to ensure the curb-side pick-up process is seamless, enough meals are available and any questions can be answered.
“I cannot put into words how amazing this partnership is with the Town of Holly Springs, Holly Springs United Methodist Church, Oasis Church and Kirk of Kildaire,” explained Emily Mosley, site supervisor for Western Regional Food Security Action Group. “These people have such big hearts and their desire to help local community members receive food when times are tough is incredible.”
So far, volunteers have served over 5,400 meals to the community. The program plans to continue for as long as needed, supplying meals to local households affected by the pandemic.
“This church has been in Holly Springs for 190 years,” shared Rev. Littleton. “We feel a sense of responsibility to meet the needs of the community. We have a responsibility to help others.”
For those without transportation and in need of a meal, please contact Holly Springs City Council Member Christine Kelly at (919) 285-9537 or cckelly0348@gmail.com.
Holly Springs United Methodist Church is located at 108 Avent Ferry Road, Holly Springs, NC 27540.
