When Catholic Charities first visited the Carol C Mobile Home Park in Wallace, NC, staff were unexpectedly assisted with fostering trust within this vulnerable community. On this initial visit, staff and volunteers were outsiders, looking to connect with individuals and distribute fresh, healthy food. Helping break down this barrier was an individual who had regularly visited the Catholic Charities Choice Pantry at the Cape Fear Regional Office in Wilmington.
This individual, who is a painter, had recently been hired for a painting job in Wallace and was familiar with residents in the Carol C Mobile Park. When residents at the mobile home park were initially hesitant to engage with Catholic Charities staff, this individual reassured hesitant residents that staff and volunteers were there solely to help, dispelling fears, and encouraging them to seek assistance without hesitation. Thanks to her advocacy, Catholic Charities was able to serve more than 40 families, despite minimal advertising.
These mobile food pantries are a critical part of the Catholic Charities focus to reach rural communities with limited access to healthy, affordable food. By bringing services directly to these areas, staff and volunteers do more than provide meals, they build connections, strengthen trust, and cultivate relationships with neighbors.
This story is a testament to the broader impact of our mobile pantry initiative, not just alleviating the effects of food insecurity, but fostering community, creating opportunities, and reinforcing the power of human connection.