The Arby’s Foundation contributed $2,000 to the Bladen Crisis Assistance Food Pantry on Wednesday.
Kathy Page, with Bladen Crisis Assistance, said they began 13 years ago as a food pantry and in November of that same year they added clothing and the thrift store began. Page said they also wanted to add financial assistance but they had no method to verify someone’s needs. Page said eventually they were able to partner with Social Services and Bladen Crisis Assistance can now offer assistance with utilities, help with rent, food, and clothing.
“If you are in need, come and talk with Tanisha (Johnson),” said Page.
She said after Hurricane Matthew, Bladen Crisis Assistance was asked if they could help with the aftermath and recovery efforts. Page said they set up at East Bladen High School and in a one and one-half weeks they saw 600 families. She said many were without power and had lost all of their food.
“We cleared our building out twice,” said Page of the recovery effort. She said during a normal month, they will distribute food to between 400 to 500 families.
“Thank you for what you do and the hundreds of families you’ve helped,” said Wesley Campbell.
Jennifer Leggett, Director of Restaurant Development with Campbell Oil Company, said the Arby’s Foundation and Campbell Oil distributed food and supplies in the aftermath of Hurricane Matthew in Bladen, Robeson and Columbus counties. She said they had contacted different distributors through which they work for relief supplies.
Leggett said the Arby’s Foundation cause is feeding children. The Arby’s Foundation gave $2,000 per county to help in any way needed.
Also attending the check presentation were Judy Rust, Jody Huls and Tom Akeley representing Arby’s, Leggett, Campbell and Page and Tanisha Johnson with Bladen Crisis Assistance.
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