Black faith leaders and farmers partner to fight food insecurity

GREENSBORO, N.C. — The Triad Black Faith Leaders and Black Farmers Network partnered with the N.C. Cooperative Extension Guilford County Center to give away more than 400 food boxes this month. 

All the produce is grown in North Carolina and will go to people struggling with food insecurity in the Triad.

Montgomery farmer and Vietnam veteran Charles Lucas filled more than 150 boxes with produce to distribute to community centers and schools Dec. 13-20. 

“Every town has a food desert, and we need to supply them with fresh vegetables,” Lucas said. “It’s such a good feeling to be able to do that for people.” 

Faith leaders started the coalition with the farmers group to help underserved communities access nutritious food without a cost barrier. 

“Today was an awesome opportunity to be of support to our community, and for people who need food and healthy food options for the holidays,” said the Rev. Phanta Lansden, pastor at St. James Presbyterian Church. “We’re excited to be in our community and make a huge difference.” 

About 10% of the North Carolina population struggles with food insecurity, according to the state Department of Health and Human Services. 

For more information on where to access food resources in your area, click here.