As the effects of H.R. 1 ripple across the country, North Carolinians are feeling the strain of new SNAP work requirements and a month-long government shutdown. In this episode of Shoresides, host Nicolas Magrino speaks with Emily Kraft and Andrea Cherry of the Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina about how policy uncertainty is reshaping the state’s hunger relief network. Kraft and Cherry describe rising demand, shrinking food supplies, and the growing fear among residents—especially in Latino and veteran communities—about applying for help. As food banks scramble to fill the gap left by federal cuts, they’re also finding renewed strength in collaboration, reminding us that community care doesn’t end when resources do.
Key Resources
1. Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina (Wilmington Branch)
1000 Greenfield Street, Wilmington, NC 28401 · Phone: 910-251-1465
- Serves five counties in the Cape Fear region including New Hanover.
- Offers a “No-Cost Market on Greenfield” at the Wilmington location (days and hours listed on their website).
- Also supports SNAP/FNS outreach and benefits information.
2. NourishNC
3606 Market Street, Wilmington, NC 28403 · Phone: 910-465-0995 (or via website)
- Focused on supplemental food assistance for children and families in New Hanover County.
- Programs include: Backpack Program (weekend meals for children), Market on Market (grocery-style choice model), Mobile Market, Food Farmacy.
3. New Hanover County Department of Social Services – Food & Nutrition Services (SNAP/FNS)
1650 Greenfield Street, Wilmington, NC 28403 · Phone: 910-798-3500 (Option 4)
- Manages the federal SNAP (Food & Nutrition Services) program for the county.
- Offers online, phone, mail, or in-person application options.
4. Local Food Pantry Network
The county provides a publicly available “Food Resource List” featuring many pantries, soup kitchens and mobile / community distribution sites in New Hanover County.
- Mother Hubbard’s Cupboard – 315 Red Cross Street, Wilmington. Wed & Sat, 12 pm-3 pm.
- Bethany Presbyterian Church Pantry – 2237 Castle Hayne Rd, Wilmington. Wed 1pm-4pm.
- Bread for Life Senior Pantry – 108 North Kerr Ave Suites K1&K2, Wilmington. Seniors 60+.
Tips for Using the Resources
- Call ahead: Hours and distributions can change quickly (especially during crises or disaster-related service shifts).
- Ask about identification or eligibility requirements: Some pantries may ask for proof of residence or ID; many are welcoming and serve all.
- Consider language/immigrant concerns: Especially for Hispanic/Latino communities — many residents may worry about applying for help; outreach coordinators (such as bilingual staff) are available.
- Combine services: SNAP benefits + food pantry + backpack programs for children can be used in tandem.
- Volunteer or donate: Many of these organizations rely on community support and seasonal surges.
