FOOD AND CLOTHING ASSISTANCE
Feeding Hope, Clothing Dignity, Empowering Futures
Food and clothing insecurity affect many individuals and families in our community, making everyday life more challenging. At RCS, we believe no one should have to face these struggles alone. Through our programs—including our Community Kitchen, Food Pantry, and Clothing Assistance—we provide essential resources that restore dignity, offer hope, and create pathways to stability. Together, we can make a lasting impact.
UNDERSTANDING FOOD & CLOTHING INSECURITY
According to Feeding America, approximately 1 in 7 individuals experience food insecurity in North Carolina. This includes a significant portion of children, with nearly 1 in 5 children facing hunger. These statistics highlight the ongoing challenges many North Carolinians face in accessing sufficient nutritious food, emphasizing the importance of initiatives aimed at alleviating food insecurity across the state.
Addressing clothing insecurity is a vital part of our mission. A lack of appropriate attire can significantly hinder an individual's ability to secure employment, thrive in educational settings, and maintain well-being throughout the year. Recognizing this, we provide access to essential clothing, ensuring community members have the means to dress with dignity and confidence. Specifically, we offer attire suitable for job readiness, empowering individuals to make strong first impressions in professional settings. In partnership with the Job Readiness Boot Camp at Craven Community College, we are committed to equipping participants with the clothing resources they need to succeed. We understand that one in five children may lack adequate school clothing, and many adults face challenges affording professional attire. Our services aim to bridge this gap, fostering opportunity and self-sufficiency.
RCS's Commitment to Addressing Food & Clothing Insecurity in Our Community
To combat these insecurities, RCS offers essential services to support our community members. Individuals and families in Craven, Jones and Pamlico can access food and clothing through our Food Pantry, Buy-A-Bag Boutique and Operation Outpost.
Food Pantry
RCS's Food Pantry provides essential support to individuals and families facing food insecurity. Accessible every other month, individuals and families receive a week's worth of groceries tailored to their specific needs. All we require is a valid ID to access our services.
With the help of dedicated volunteers, food pantry orders are carefully filled with shelf-stable items, fresh produce, protein, bread, and a variety of other donated goods from our retail partners. We understand the importance of culturally sensitive food choices, and our personalized approach ensures that every household receives the food they need to nourish their families. Our food pantry strives to make a positive impact by offering support to those who need it most, fostering a sense of community and stability.
Monday-Friday
9:00am-4:00pm
By Appointment
for Clients Served Within Last 3 Months
Walk-Ins Available
for New Clients or Those Not Served Within Last 3 Months
Operation Outpost
Operation Outpost is RCS's mobile distribution program designed to serve individuals and families in our three-county service area, especially in communities that face transportation barriers or are considered food deserts. Recognizing that many people cannot make it to our New Bern campus due to work schedules or lack of transportation, we bring vital resources directly to them. Every Wednesday, our box truck visits four rotating locations, providing shelf-stable food, fresh produce, clothing, coolers of protein, and even birthday cake kits to celebrate special moments.
Food Insecurity in Rural Communities
With the support of dedicated volunteers, we engage with individuals and families to assess their needs and connect them to additional services like case management and other RCS programs. Through this outreach, we aim to strengthen our community relationships while addressing food insecurity and expanding access to critical support. We’re excited to deepen our partnerships with the Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina and MERCI Clinic to extend the reach and impact of Operation Outpost.
Every Wednesday from 5:30p-7:30p
1st Wednesday: Havelock (NEW LOCATION)
114 Trade Avenue
Havelock, NC 28532
2nd Wednesday: Harlowe
125 Goethe School Road
Harlowe, NC 28532
3rd Wednesday: Pamlico County
Contentnea Health (Pamlico Community Health)
313 Main Street
Bayboro, NC 28515
4th Wednesday: Bridgeton
1192 US Highway 17
Bridgeton, NC 28560
Buy-A-Bag Boutique
RCS's Buy-A-Bag Boutique provides essential clothing support to individuals and families. Those experiencing clothing insecurity can go to Client Services to request a voucher, offering access to a bag of clothing tailored to their household needs.
This boutique is also open to the entire community, offering an affordable and sustainable way to shop. All are welcome to explore our diverse selection.
With the help of dedicated volunteers and generous donations, our boutique is carefully stocked with a variety of quality clothing items for all ages and styles. We believe everyone deserves to access clothing with dignity, and our welcoming approach ensures a positive shopping experience for all.
Whether you're seeking essential pieces or unique finds, our Buy-A-Bag Boutique strives to make a positive impact by offering affordable and sustainable clothing options to our community.
Boutique Hours
Tuesday-Thursday
10:00am-2:00pm
Located in Building #3
Please use Guion Street entrance.
For community members wanting to donate clothing, donations are accepted
Monday-Friday, 9:00am-4:00pm.
