Our Present

Highlights of 2022 

  • Received special funding/donation from the Town of Indian Trail valued at $304,000 which provided food, a new 16'x18' freezer and 18'x20' cooler, and a new box truck
  • Provided and distributed over 33,134 bags of nutritious food for families across our region 
  • Served families in over 33 different public schools across Union and Anson Counties 
  • Recorded over 5,400 Volunteer hours – averaging over 60 volunteers week ly 
  • Made over 7,200 home deliveries with the help of volunteers, social workers, and school staff 
  • Distributed over $551,000 worth of non-perishable, refrigerated and frozen food to families in need 

The above image is an example of what is bagged for each student for the duration of the weekend. These bags are packed light enough for an elementary school child to take home. Our food that we bag is retrieved through generous donations from various organizations or purchased in bulk with money raised through monetary donations.

Our Past

For years, teachers and administrators across Union County Schools have witnessed a dire need in many of their students. Students arrive to school following the weekend and many have not eaten since their free or reduced lunch at school on Friday. This literally creates a learning and discipline disability socially and in the classroom. We knew that we could make a difference in these kids’ lives by providing food for them for the weekend.

So, early in 2012 The Backpack Ministry of First Baptist Church Indian Trail (FBCIT) was born and supported by a hand-full of concerned members. Our humble beginnings were highlighted by us renting a storage building for $1 per month, and packing and distributing nutritious backpacks of food to 20 families in nearby schools. These same teachers and administrators mentioned earlier began to see an immediate difference in these children’s attitudes, discipline and school work. We knew that the success we were seeing in these children could be multiplied across the entire Union County School system. But, we needed more space, resources, volunteers and food. 

We quickly out grew that space and moved to an office building which was donated to us. In a short period of time, we grew from serving 20 to over 200 families and outgrowing the office building we were using. We then moved into a warehouse that was graciously donated to us. However, we knew we needed the support of the church, community and local businesses to meet this ever-growing need. In 2014, we applied for our 501(c)(3) and it was approved. We changed the name to Food for Families NC, working under Backpack Ministry, Inc.

In 2018, we acquired our own facility at 4393A Indian Trail Fairview Road.  We rely on the selfless donations from individuals, churches, volunteers and gracious businesses to meet the weekly needs of Food For Families.

Thankfully, just in 2020 alone, Food for Families NC has delivered over 36,510 bags/boxes of food to needy, hungry children and their families in Union County and surrounding areas.

We will continue to grow, serve and help feed families in need. Be a part of this wonderful cause and help us continue to reach and serve hungry children and families by making a donation today!