Supporting Charlotte Families in Need
by Meaghan Dunham Arena, Communications & Engagement Coordinator
Recent events in our community — from heightened concerns among immigrant families to the temporary pause in federal benefits — have spotlighted the urgent need for mutual aid and local support, especially as we approach the holidays. Here’s how Women’s Impact Fund members and friends can help strengthen food access and support neighbors across Charlotte.
Supporting Immigrant Families in Charlotte
Many immigrant families in Charlotte are currently feeling unsafe moving through their communities, which has created added challenges around food access, school routines, employment, and daily life. Several nonprofits that Women’s Impact Fund has trusted connections with — including Carolina Migrant Network, Comunidad Colectiva, Despierta, and Our BRIDGE for Kids — are coordinating resources to support families during this time.
Here are ways community members can stay informed and help:
- Report Concerning Activity
Comunidad Colectiva Hotline: 704-740-7737
Share date, time, exact location, and clear photos/videos. - Stay Updated on Community Alerts
Follow Carolina Migrant Network and Comunidad Colectiva on social media.
Use this updated WhatsApp Channel - Local Immigration News
Follow journalist Julian Berger (WFAE) for verified updates. - Support Immigrant-Owned Businesses
Charlotte EAST compiled a list of East Charlotte small businesses you can support here. - Despierta Emergency Amazon List
Despierta has a list on Amazon where you can purchase emergency supplies for families in need. - Print “Know Your Rights” Cards
Available in multiple languages: https://www.ilrc.org/redcards?blm_aid=2510897 - Build Neighborhood Communication Channels
Create secure group chats for your block or building to stay connected and share updates. - The National Immigrant Justice Center
Resources for how to bear witness during raids or arrests can be found here. - Compare Foods is offering free delivery for groceries through December 31st.
Watch the video below to learn more.
These efforts help families feel safer, more informed, and more connected — and they ensure vulnerable community members are not left facing these challenges alone.
Food Insecurity in Charlotte: How the Community Is Responding
The recent pause in federal SNAP benefits further spotlighted how vulnerable many families are to sudden financial or logistical disruptions. As demand for food assistance grows — especially heading into the holiday season — local organizations are working tirelessly to meet community needs.
Here are ways to help:
Where to Donate
Several local organizations are working tirelessly to fill the gap left by the loss of federal food benefits:
- SHARE Charlotte has compiled a list of trusted food pantries and nonprofits accepting donations, including Loaves & Fishes/Friendship Trays, Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina, and Hearts & Hands Food Pantry.
- WSOC-TV’s local guide also highlights donation drives and volunteer opportunities across the region.
- WBTV reports that pantries throughout Mecklenburg and surrounding counties are accepting both financial gifts and nonperishable food donations.
Every contribution helps ensure families have access to nutritious meals, especially as demand rises toward year-end.
Where to Find Help
If you or someone you know needs food support, local organizations are offering help:
- Former WIF Nonprofit Partners like Care Ring, Camino Health, Carolina Farm Trust, and The Bulb Market are offering immediate food assistance to the community.
- WFAE’s resource list includes food banks, meal programs, and agencies helping residents navigate the shutdown.
- Axios Charlotte’s guide shares locations for free food distributions and assistance programs.
- Mecklenburg County has expanded food access support — learn more through the County’s news update.
- For statewide assistance, visit the NC Department of Health and Human Services food access map to find nearby pantries and meal sites.
Together, We Can Make a Difference
Women’s Impact Fund members have always shown what collective care looks like — especially during periods of uncertainty. Whether you donate to a food pantry, support an immigrant-owned business, attend a community call, or share these resources with your networks, your actions directly strengthen the wellbeing of Charlotte families.
This season, let’s recommit to supporting our neighbors with compassion, dignity, and solidarity.
