To the Editor:
Friends and wisitors to Haywood County, we count it as a privilege to volunteer with the anti-hunger program of Haywood Christian Ministry. We sort donated food and produce which is then distributed through the food pantry, food lockers or at feeding sites. We began this work in late 2024, after Hurricane Helene devastated much of our region, leaving many in Haywood County homeless and without access to an adequate source of food.
Our volunteer time stems from our believe in the words from Matthew 25, “I was hungry and you gave me something to eat…”
There are still many people suffering from the effects of Helene and with cutbacks in various federal and state anti-hunger programs. Add to that the significant increase in the cost of groceries, and many people simply are not able to afford the amount of food they need to feed their families.
Much of the work of Haywood Christian Ministry’s anti-hunger program has depended upon grants, and these have been reduced in recent months; however, the need to feed the hungry remains.
We have lived in Haywood County for over 30 years and have seen the caring nature of the people here. It does not matter your political party, your religious denomination, if any, your race, sex, creed or any other factor — we believe that we all have a calling to care about others and show concern for those in need.
Whether you are able to donate food or money or items for resale at the Haywood Christian Ministry Thrift Store at 150 Branner Ave., you can help meet the needs of your fellow residents of Haywood County. Monetary donations may be mailed to HCM at P. O. Box 628, Waynesville, N.C., 28786.
Back to Matthew 25, Jesus said, “whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”
Lee Galloway
Nancy Thompson
Waynesville