CHARLOTTE — Catholic Charities Diocese of Charlotte has seen an increase in the number of families seeking food assistance as we head into Thanksgiving.
“We typically serve about 100 families per week, but we are now averaging around 130,” said Debra Lemmon, regional director.
CCDOC is thankful for several parishes that helped with today’s food distribution at Catholic Charities’ pantry in Charlotte, ensuring that local families will have a good Thanksgiving.
St. Matthew Church provided 125 bins stocked with food and $25 Harris Teeter gift cards. The bins were distributed among participants in various Catholic Charities programs, including: 65 bins for food pantry participants, 17 bins for Transition out of Poverty participants, 15 bins for both participants in both Supportive Services for Veteran Families and Refugee Services, and 13 bins for Pregnancy Support and Adoption participants.
St. Joseph Vietnamese Catholic Church held a food drive throughout November and delivered three trailer loads of food to support the pantry – a contribution that Lemmon said will help meet increased demand throughout the holiday season. St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church also held a month-long food drive to help stock the pantry.
“These parish partnerships are truly at the heart of our ability to serve families in need. The generosity, dedication, and community spirit not only help keep our pantry stocked but also inspire hope and connection during the holiday season,” Lemmon said.
“Through these collaborations, Catholic Charities is proud to help our parishes connect their communities directly to the work of charity, fostering meaningful engagement and tangible impact for those we serve.
“Their support reminds us that when communities come together, we can make a real difference in the lives of our neighbors. We are deeply grateful for these ongoing partnerships and the positive outcomes they create.”
— Catholic News Herald
Charlotte Catholic baseball players help load bins of food for Catholic Charities Diocese of Charlotte to distribute for Thanksgiving. (Photo by Troy C. Hull)