You likely do not see the impacts here in South Charlotte but there are thousands of less fortunate families throughout our city who are terrified to go to the grocery store to even purchase food for risk of being accosted even if they are legal US citizens. They fear for the safety of their family and friends.
Even without ICE, SNAP benefits are barely back in motion as a result of the government shutdown and the holiday season is always a stretch for less fortunate families.
The most basic and immediate action we can take to help is to provide food and home delivery to those in need. Our Saintfield neighbor, Mark Kemp is the music director at Myers Park Presbyterian and is working directly with their community outreach coordinator to collect and distribute food directly to those in need. Any donation is greatly appreciated.
Please leave canned foods on the front porch at 7329 Prescott Lane (Mark and Kelly Kemp). It can be 100% anonymous. Each Friday through the end of the year, Mark will take the donations to his church where their outreach program will ensure the food gets to those in need.
I urge you to purchase a few extra items each week when you grocery shop and drop off at Kemps. If you would rather donate, venmo @amlinz and I will work with Mark to purchase with your donation.
Recommended Items:
Cleaning supplies, Toilet paper, Paper towels, bottled water, pasta, Flour, Sugar, coffee, rice, beans, condiments (mayo, ketchup), juice, oil, kid snacks, baby formula, canned and packaged food (no perishable foods, glass or items requiring refrigeration)
If you have are interested in further volunteering, advocating, training to support our Charlotte Community, Mark and his team have a healthy list of resources they can share (Thank you Mark)
Aaron Linz 704 241 0838
Mark Kemp 864 354 9897
