Special to The Island News
In response to increasing demand for food assistance, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has provided additional emergency funding to 60 food pantries across the Southeastern United States with the potential for assistance to additional locations.
HELP of Beaufort is among the organizations getting additional help.
This support will help relieve shortages and provide meals for more than 400,000 individuals and families facing food insecurity.
Receiving organizations such as HELP of Beaufort are on the front lines of helping those in need. Many have experienced recent stock shortages and heightened demand as families struggle with reduced benefits and rising food costs.
HELP of Beaufort’s Executive Director Lori Opozda said, “We moved into our permanent home just 12 weeks ago, just in time for the food stamp issue and government shutdown. The funds we receive will be used to keep our pantry shelves stocked and our mobile meals program operating without a hitch.”
This initiative builds on the Church’s ongoing humanitarian efforts to care for the poor and hungry. In 2024 alone, more than 32 million pounds of food were donated through community and interfaith organizations across the United States.
“As followers of Jesus Christ, we are invited to care for those in need,” Elder Craig C. Christensen, United States Southeast Area President of the Church, said in a media release. “When we lift the weary, feed the hungry, and comfort those who suffer, we reflect the pure light of the Savior. In doing so, we become instruments in His hands to heal hearts and help others feel the joy and peace that come from a merciful Redeemer who remembers each one of us.”
Opozda described her organization’s ongoing needs.
“HELP of Beaufort has been working with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for quite a few years; the pallets of food we received during the COVID pandemic were life-saving for our pantry shelves. Having to move again three years ago, we were in an extremely tight space and were unable to receive pallets of food anymore.
“During the last four years we had an ongoing building campaign and now have a permanent home completely built by the community. Between donations, donated materials and a builder who worked 100% with us, we made it happen.
“We are always looking for volunteers and perishables/nonperishables, especially with the holidays approaching. Our toy drive this year has superceded previous years, with 242 children already signed up, and we still have two more weeks to go for registrations!”
