Catholic Charities pantries reopen under new guidelines to protect volunteers, clients, staff

Catholic Charities food pantries in Raleigh and Wilmington reopened Friday under new operating procedures to keep staff, volunteers and clients safe from the spread of coronavirus. Pantries in Durham, Fayetteville and Greenville will reopen next week.

The pantries had closed March 25.

“The spread of COVID-19 is a concern we knew we needed to take very seriously,” shared Ms. Lisa Perkins, Executive Director for Catholic Charities. “I am really proud of how much we have accomplished in such a short period of time, to be able to reopen our facilities and be confident we are properly protecting our staff, volunteers, and families who we serve.”

Pantry staff and volunteers have been educated on the dangers and prevention of the spread of coronavirus, and regular cleaning protocols have been established.

Those who work or volunteer at the pantries are practicing proper social distancing techniques while preparing food before it is distributed to families. 

The updated operations also eliminate most face to face interactions between clients and staff or volunteers.

“We feel blessed by the support and prayers of our community,” Perkins said. “We are honored to serve our neighbors in need, as well as serve alongside our volunteers. We look forward to opening our doors to our brothers and sisters in need again.”

Last year, Catholic Charities provided nearly three million pounds of food to people in need throughout central and eastern North Carolina. This amount is expected to significantly increase in the wake of COVID-19, due to loss of employment, school closures and limited resources in the community.