THINK Pender Strong launches Emergency Food & Resource Drive focused on hurricane preparedness

PENDER COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — THINK Pender Strong has announced the launch of the 2026 Emergency Food & Resource Drive, a month-long effort focused on hurricane preparedness and community resilience across Pender County.

Running May 1 through June 6, the drive will collect essential supplies at local businesses and churches, with additional on-site food sourcing events scheduled for May 16 at Food Lion in Rocky Point, and May 30 at Food Lion locations in both Rocky Point and Burgaw, as well as the Piggly Wiggly in Burgaw. Boy Scouts will assist with collection efforts during these events.

Organizers say the initiative focuses on non-perishable, easy-to-use items needed during power outages and storm recovery, including food, water, hygiene products, first aid supplies, and basic emergency tools.

Donations will be sorted June 1–5 and distributed at the PLTRG Disaster Expo on June 6.

Community partners are encouraged to host donation boxes, run internal collection efforts, and share outreach materials. Monetary donations are also being accepted through the Burgaw Lions Club to help purchase additional supplies.

Officials say the effort is aimed at ensuring rural and vulnerable residents are better prepared for hurricane season and long-term recovery needs.