Pender County DSS hosts second annual food drive to support local food pantries
PENDER COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — Pender County Department of Social Services (DSS) is collecting food donations to help families facing food insecurity throughout the county.
The department’s second annual food drive runs from Oct. 12 through Nov. 13, 2026, with all donations benefiting Pender County food pantries.
Organizers are encouraging residents to contribute nonperishable food items to help support families in need.
The most-needed items include:
- Canned soups and stews
- Canned vegetables
- Canned fruit
- Pasta and rice
- Canned proteins
- Peanut butter
Only unexpired food donations will be accepted.
Donation drop-off locations and hours include:
Hampstead and Burgaw Libraries
- Monday through Friday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Saturday: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Pender County Health and Human Services
- Monday through Friday: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Hampstead Annex
- Monday through Friday: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Organizers say the food drive is an opportunity for the community to come together and make a difference for families experiencing food insecurity.
For more information, contact Pender County DSS representative Amanda Howard at 910-259-1380 or visit 298 Progress Drive in Burgaw.
The food drive concludes Friday, Nov. 13.
