Tailored Solutions: Meeting Needs Across Generations
Across Wake County, different age groups face distinct challenges when it comes to food security. From addressing the critical needs of hungry youth, to supporting college students managing academic demands and basic necessities, and recognizing the often-overlooked issue of senior hunger – our community members encounter a range of food-related obstacles at different stages of life. Our goal is to contribute to a more comprehensive and tailored approach, ensuring food security for everyone in our community.
Youth Hunger
As of 2021 in Wake County, 14% of children under 18 were food insecure. Sufficient nutrition is necessary for a child's success, as hunger can impact a child's development well into adulthood.
During the summer months, the Summer Food Service Program provides daily lunch for children 18 and under.
Youth Food Security Summit
The annual Youth Food Security Summit is hosted by Wake County Cooperative Extension and supported by several food system leaders in the community. High school participants gain an understanding of food systems, connect with other youth performing food security work in Wake County, and share their voices through meaningful engagement opportunities.
Teen Recipe Book
The recipes in this book were put together by the CAFN Youth Circle as well as nutritionists from Poe Health Center. Not only does it provide healthy, easy and delicious recipes that anyone can make, but it also provides helpful resources such as food pantry locations, insights on how to plan a menu, grocery shopping tips, SNAP tips, seasonal produce guides and so much more.
College Hunger
Wake County is home to six universities. Many students struggle to get help because they are unsure of where to look. Often students are facing more than one issue, for example many foods insecure student also struggle to find affordable housing.
HOST Program: Housing Options for Students Today
Student Resource Guide: A compiled list of resources for any student experiencing insecurity.
Food Assistance Webinar for College Students: Navigate the world of food assistance! Includes Q&A session with NC State's More in My Basket, a student support program connecting North Carolina residents to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
Food Pantry Grants and Partners: Ready to make a difference in your community? In this video, we’re unlocking exciting food pantry grant opportunities through Cooperative Extension and showcasing the Pantry Patrol app—an amazing tool to help track, monitor, and eliminate food waste.
Drafted Syllabus Addition for Wake County Professors
It is difficult to be successful as a student when basic needs are not being met. As a student you should have a safe place to sleep as well as nutritious food. If you feel your performance is being affected by either of theses factors, please reach out to me, _________________, and/or the student services provided at _________________________. Please check out the Wake County Student Resource Guide for more resources or information.
Senior Hunger
Seniors are an often-overlooked group when it comes to addressing hunger and food insecurity. In Wake County, seniors make up a growing age group – and will continue to do so – over time. In the past decade alone, according to Meals on Wheels, people aged 55 and older have made up over 45% of the county’s overall population growth. At the same time, Feeding America reports that, the Raleigh metropolitan area had the second highest level of senior food insecurity in the country in 2020.
Resources for Seniors – Serving Wake County
919-713-1556
Offers a diverse list of assistance options for Wake County seniors and adults with disabilities. The resource listings fall into several categories, including food, recreation, healthcare, and home improvement.
Food and Nutrition Services
Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP) provides eligible participants with benefits to purchase food.
Commodity Supplemental Food Program
Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) provides eligible seniors with a monthly package of food to help meet their nutritional needs. Packages are distributed by approved local agencies across the county.
Meals on Wheels
Delivery of a hot meal (typically lunchtime) and a friendly check-in at a senior’s residence.
Meals on Wheels Wake Friendship Cafes
Nine locations across Wake County offer seniors a hot meal and an opportunity to socialize.
North Carolina Seniors Farmers' Market Nutrition Program
Provides eligible seniors with benefits to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables at area farmers’ markets.
Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina
919-875-0707
Major regional food provider that distributes to local pantries and food assistance organizations across central and eastern North Carolina. Also offers pop-up markets in and around
Wake County.
Inter-Faith Food Shuttle
919-250-0043
Offers a variety of food-related resources, from healthy cooking and nutrition classes and gardening assistance to mobile markets and a “Grocery Bags for Seniors” program that delivers monthly packages to designated low-income consolidated living communities in and around Wake County.
Resources to Share
Food Security Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some frequently asked questions about food security in Wake County. If you have additional questions, please contact Sydney Klein, Food Security Program Manager, at sydney.klein@wake.gov or 919-250-3795.
How does SNAP work?
- SNAP helps low-income households with monthly food expenses. It helps those who are eligible to be able to afford more nutritious and needed food by providing supplemental support.
- To find out if you qualify:
- Visit Food and Nutrition Services
- Call 919-212-7000
- Or email Foodandnutrition@wake.gov
- Read more about SNAP
What is WIC?
- WIC is the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children. It is a federal program funded by the United States Department of Agriculture. WIC provides healthy foods, nutrition and breastfeeding support, and referrals to healthcare and community services. WIC serves babies and children up to age 5, pregnant women, and new mothers.
- The program does not require a Social Security number, proof of citizenship, or a background check to receive benefits.
- To find out if you qualify, visit WIC Program.
Can I have WIC and SNAP?
Yes! Families who are eligible for both WIC and SNAP can receive both.
How do I find out if my child's school has a food pantry?
If you or your children are enrolled in a Wake County school and would like to know if your school has a pantry, please contact Michael J. Pesce, Director of Social Work, at mpesce@wcpss.net.