First Fruit Ministries expands efforts to fight hunger with community partnerships

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — A Wilmington nonprofit is expanding its ability to feed people facing food insecurity while bringing community leaders together to address hunger across the Cape Fear.

First Fruit Ministries hosted its quarterly “Waymaker Luncheon” on Tuesday, where community leaders, healthcare partners and volunteers gathered to discuss the growing impact of hunger and ways to strengthen partnerships that support those in need.

“I don’t think that people really understand the scale of how many people are hungry that are their neighbors, people just assume that you have enough, “said Stoker.

First Fruit Ministries provides meals, shelter and support services for people experiencing homelessness, survivors of human trafficking and others facing food insecurity.

Stoker said hunger extends far beyond an empty plate, affecting families, education and people’s ability to build a better future.

“They really do not have what they need to strive to have better jobs, have more time to focus on family, children that can pay attention in class,” Stoker said. “The issue of hunger affects everyone and it’s all of our responsibility to do what we can to see that everyone is healthy and thriving.”

The organization’s mission also draws volunteers from across the country.

Sandy Paing traveled from Lutheran High School in Indianapolis to volunteer during the event, saying helping others can have an impact well beyond a single community.

“If we help our communities, we can make our countries better as a whole and we can also make our world better as a whole,” Paing said.

The luncheon also highlighted a recent investment in the ministry’s kitchen.

A $10,000 grant from the American Heart Association and Novant Health helped First Fruit Ministries purchase a commercial-grade oven, allowing the nonprofit to prepare more fresh meals for the community.

“It helps them to provide safer and more efficient nutritious meals to the community right here in Wilmington,” said Aaron Fox, Executive Director of the American Heart Association.

The organization’s mission goes beyond providing meals.

“To show them God’s love, to show them the love of Jesus Christ,” said Carol Malinoski.

Those interested in learning more about First Fruit Ministries or supporting its mission can visit the organization website for volunteer and donation opportunities.