Goodwill Industries to Distribute Fresh Produce Boxes to Communities in Need

Goodwill Industries of Eastern North Carolina Takes Action Against Food Insecurity

In a commendable move to support local communities, Goodwill Industries of Eastern North Carolina, Inc. (GIENC®) has announced plans to deliver 4,000 boxes of fresh produce this week. This initiative is aimed at assisting families and individuals grappling with food insecurity, particularly in the wake of rising economic challenges.

The distribution is scheduled for November 6 and 7, 2025, during which pallets of fresh produce—each containing 50 boxes—will be provided to various partner organizations. Each box will include approximately 15 pounds of seasonal fruits and vegetables such as apples, carrots, onions, peppers, squash, sweet potatoes, and zucchini, tailored to meet the needs of local communities.

GIENC's commitment to alleviating food scarcity forms part of their broader mission to serve eastern North Carolinians facing everyday hardships due to increased living costs and economic uncertainty. The organization has partnered with groups like Celebration Church, the Richland Township Chamber of Commerce, and UNC Health to ensure these fresh supplies reach those who need them most, extending their reach across multiple counties including Beaufort, Durham, Granville, Johnson, Northampton, and Wake.

Christopher Hash, the President and CEO of GIENC, emphasized the organization's aim to be a reliable resource for the residents of eastern North Carolina. "Our goal is to be a resource that eastern North Carolinians can rely on when they're facing real life challenges," he stated, underscoring their mission to combat food insecurity while addressing basic needs for all individuals and families.

The current distribution effort follows GIENC's successful collaboration with over 50 community partners, including organizations like A Place at the Table and Interfaith Food Shuttle. Over the past year, GIENC has distributed more than 70,000 pounds of food and provided approximately 4,700 food boxes along with community event food vouchers totaling over $130,000. The organization’s extensive impact clearly demonstrates the power of community partnerships in the fight against hunger.

In addition to food distribution, GIENC is dedicated to providing monetary support to community programs that align with its mission. Last year alone, they awarded $1.5 million in grants to enhance community activities aimed at education, employment, and life enrichment.

So far in 2025, GIENC has committed all proceeds from its Round Up program to combating food insecurity, channeling approximately $300,000 into grants for community partners, and distributing curated food boxes, including over 100,000 pounds of food. They are adamant about filling crucial gaps in basic needs across the 51 counties they serve.

Notably, GIENC has launched its Employee Care Fund, designed to assist employees facing financial crises. The fund allows staff members to apply for cash assistance of up to $500, while also providing access to various resources like food vouchers and personal care kits. This program reflects GIENC's holistic approach to community welfare.

Looking ahead, GIENC will open the Aurora Community Cupboard in early 2026, a pay-what-you-can food market in Aurora, a town currently designated as a "food desert". With the nearest grocery store being more than ten miles away, this initiative aims to provide local residents with access to healthy and affordable food options.

For over six decades, Goodwill Industries of Eastern North Carolina has been steadfast in transforming lives by empowering individuals, families, and communities through employment, education, and enrichment opportunities. With 43 employment program centers operating across the area, they continue to ensure that donations directly contribute to impactful programs helping community members in need.

To find out more about GIENC’s initiatives or to contribute, visit www.gienc.org.