
Staff Report
Chadbourn, NC – In an effort to combat food insecurity, a pop-up food pantry, facilitated by the Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina’s Wilmington Branch, recently set up shop in Chadbourn, offering residents much-needed access to fresh and nutritious food. The initiative, known as the Pop-Up Market, aims to serve communities where food resources may be difficult to access. Individuals and families will be asked for their phone numbers in case of any food recalls. This Pop-Up market is available to all, and doesn’t require any income, ID, or residency information.
The next Pop-Up Market event in Chadbourn will be held on March 19, from 2 to 4 p.m., at the Jerusalem Chapel Free Will Baptist Church, located at 6224 Chadbourn Hwy, Chadbourn, NC 28431.
Designed to operate like a farmer’s market, the Pop-Up Market allows individuals and families to walk through and select the products best suited for their households. Volunteers play a crucial role in the effort, assisting with setup, client intake, stocking tables, guiding visitors through the selection process, and helping with cleanup after the distribution.
With the distribution taking place outdoors, organizers ensure that volunteers and attendees have access to water and shaded tents. Participants are encouraged to prepare accordingly for the weather.
Isa Bailey, the event’s organizer, emphasizes the importance of these markets, stating, “We are committed to making food accessible to those in need, especially in areas where grocery stores and food resources are limited. This initiative not only provides immediate relief but also fosters a sense of community.”
While the event welcomes volunteers, it is important to note that court-ordered and attorney-recommended volunteers are not permitted to participate, as the organization does not verify court-ordered hours.
The Pop-Up Markets take place at multiple locations throughout the region, including Wilmington at 1000 Greenfield Street. For more information or to get involved, individuals can reach out to Isa Bailey at ibailey@foodbankcenc.org or call 910-622-0035.
As food insecurity continues to be a pressing issue, efforts like the Pop-Up Market offer hope and tangible support to those in need, one meal at a time.
Check out the image below for other Pop-Up Markets going on in March.