North Raleigh Ministries Launches Fundraising to Support Community Programs

North Raleigh Ministries Launches Fundraising Campaign

In a significant move to expand its outreach and support capabilities, North Raleigh Ministries has announced a public fundraising appeal. This initiative aims to ensure that more community members in Raleigh can access vital resources and programs that facilitate individual growth and support.

Having served individuals and families in crisis for over two decades, North Raleigh Ministries is focused on enhancing its programs to reach even more people in need. The fundraising will specifically help them hire additional staff and develop new programs, allowing them to support individuals across 11 of Raleigh's 15 zip codes.

Earlier this year, the organization celebrated the opening of its Crisis and Development Center, located at 2809 E. Millbrook. This facility is a result of the "Building Strong Foundations" capital campaign and is backed by a generous $1 million grant from Wake County, in addition to support from corporate donors and partners. The 19,300-square-foot center features a food pantry, offices for program staff, classrooms, and spaces for both private and group meetings. This setting is designed to provide essential resources and transformational services to individuals struggling to meet their basic living needs.

Lesley Funk, the Director of Programs at North Raleigh Ministries, emphasizes the unique blend of faith and evidence-based practices that defines their approach. The nonprofit offers three core programs:
1. Food Support: Delivering accessible food options to aid those facing food insecurity.
2. Coaching Programs: Tailored assistance for those ready to embark on significant life changes, helping them toward financial stewardship.
3. Pastoral Care: Offering guidance for individuals in crisis to help navigate their way to stability.

Participants have shared transformative experiences through their involvement. Chimarri, one of many individuals served, noted, “I’ve learned to believe in myself since coming to North Raleigh Ministries. It helped me with endurance and faith, and now I am a peer volunteer here, helping others with information and resources.”
Finessa, another participant, added, “It makes you feel like part of something when you give back to the community with help funded by your neighbors.”

The need for support is reflected in the organization's recent program launches. For instance, the Mindful Meals initiative, started in October, targets the food insecurity and social isolation experienced by Raleigh's older residents, focusing on their health and well-being needs.

Since relocating to its new center in May, North Raleigh Ministries has served 3,936 individuals through its food pantry. Additionally, 62 families have successfully completed coaching programs, enabling them to move forward toward financial preparedness. The pastoral care team has provided essential support to participants, guiding them through crises to more sustainable futures.

Over its operational years, North Raleigh Ministries has positively impacted nearly 100,000 Raleigh residents. In just the past year, they provided grocery assistance to around 9,500 individuals and families, in addition to crisis support to over 1,000 families. Notably, results from their Journey Program exhibited significant improvement, with 32 families collectively reducing their debt by nearly $24,600 and saving over $17,000 for emergencies.

To join the effort and contribute to the Building Strong Foundations campaign, interested parties can visit their website at buildingstrongfoundations.org/give. Every donation will enhance the ability of North Raleigh Ministries to serve the community and provide essential services to those in need. Moreover, for anyone wanting to learn more about the organization, further information is available at northraleighministries.com.

Together, let's support North Raleigh Ministries as they strive to strengthen their community and continue making a lasting impact for those in crisis.