Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina

Background

Established in 1980, the Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina (FBCENC) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing food to individuals at risk of hunger across 34 counties in central and eastern North Carolina. With a mission to "Nourish people. Build solutions. Empower communities," FBCENC envisions a future where no one goes hungry. The organization operates a network of over 700 partner agencies, including soup kitchens, food pantries, shelters, and programs for children and adults, to distribute food and essential resources to those in need.

Key Strategic Focus

FBCENC's strategic focus encompasses several core objectives:

• Nourishing Families of All Sizes: Distributing 90 million meals annually across its 34-county service area, emphasizing equitable food distribution and accessibility.

• Nourishing Seniors, Children & Teens: Providing 4 million meals through child nutrition and senior program sites, including grab-and-go meal sites, school pantries, and meal deliveries.

• Nourishing Historically Resilient Communities: Partnering with organizations serving marginalized communities to increase food access and address systemic inequities.

• Empowering Health & Communities: Distributing 41 million pounds of fresh produce and collaborating with local farmers to support healthy eating initiatives.

• Building Sustainable Solutions: Establishing an endowment fund to generate sustainable revenue for future community support.

Financials and Funding

In the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024, FBCENC reported:

• Total Revenue: $234 million

• Total Expenses: $239 million

• Net Assets: $103 million

The organization's revenue primarily comprises contributions and grants, accounting for 98% of total revenue. Program services and investment income constitute the remaining 2%. Expenses are predominantly allocated to program services, with a small percentage dedicated to fundraising and administrative costs.

Leadership Team

As of the latest available information, the leadership team includes:

• Interim Co-CEO: Mickey Holt

• Interim Co-CEO: Charlie Hale

The organization is governed by a Board of Directors comprising individuals from diverse backgrounds, contributing to strategic oversight and governance.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

North Carolina hosts approximately 160 food banks and pantries, collectively employing 659 individuals and generating over $530 million in annual revenue. The food bank sector in the state is characterized by a mix of large organizations and smaller entities, each contributing to the fight against hunger.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors in the region include:

• Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina: Serving the Charlotte area, this organization reported revenues of $156.5 million and assets of $59.1 million, employing 92 staff members.

• Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest NC: Based in Winston-Salem, this food bank reported revenues of $75.9 million and assets of $29.5 million, with a staff of 62.

• Food Bank of the Albemarle: Operating in northeast North Carolina, it reported revenues of $16.6 million and assets of $10.4 million, employing 62 individuals.

These organizations, along with FBCENC, play pivotal roles in addressing food insecurity across North Carolina.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

FBCENC has established significant partnerships to enhance its service delivery:

• Feeding America: As a member of this national network, FBCENC collaborates with over 200 food banks to combat hunger nationwide.

• Local Partnerships: Collaborations with organizations such as Sweetgreen, Wish Farms Inc., and Saratoga Hospital have expanded FBCENC's reach and resources.

Operational Insights

FBCENC's operational strategy includes:

• Volunteer Engagement: Utilizing approximately 250,000 volunteer hours annually, equivalent to 116 full-time employees, to support operations.

• Technological Integration: Employing tools like Microsoft Excel, Java, and Google Analytics to enhance operational efficiency.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

FBCENC aims to:

• Expand Meal Distribution: Increase the number of meals distributed annually to meet growing demand.

• Enhance Community Partnerships: Strengthen collaborations with local organizations to address systemic causes of hunger.

• Invest in Infrastructure: Upgrade facilities and technology to improve food distribution efficiency.

• Advocate for Policy Change: Engage in advocacy efforts to influence policies addressing food insecurity.

Contact Information

• Website: foodbankcenc.org

• Social Media:

• LinkedIn: Food Bank of Central & Eastern NC

• Twitter: @foodbankcenc

• Facebook: Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina

• Headquarters: Raleigh, North Carolina

FBCENC continues to play a critical role in alleviating hunger and empowering communities across central and eastern North Carolina.