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For over three decades, the Northside of Wilmington has struggled with limited access to fresh groceries, rendering it a food desert. After retiring from a 23-year job, I dedicated myself to serving the unsheltered population across Wilmington. As I engaged with individuals and outreach providers, I uncovered the challenges they faced, especially during late afternoons and weekends.Motivated by this need, I rallied a group of friends to join me in preparing and distributing meals on weekends. In October 2021, while supporting another organization, I realized there was no facility for the unsheltered to access showers and maintain personal hygiene. Through collaboration with Vigilant Hope, a respected nonprofit, we secured access to their shower trailer twice weekly. However, we faced a new challenge: finding a location to set up the trailer.

 

Turning to Pastor Donna Marie Calix of Mt. Zion AME Church, I received an enthusiastic 'Yes' to utilize their grounds, made easier by the church's temporary closure due to the pandemic.With Pastor Calix's support, we established a schedule to provide showers, warm meals, and locally sourced produce on Wednesdays and Fridays. Over the years, our efforts have grown, with 4,043 meals and 341 showers provided in 2021-2022, and 5,062 meals and 218 showers in 2022-2023.Every interaction, every meal, every shower—each one counts towards building a stronger, more compassionate community on the Northside of Wilmington.

 

In 2021 I wanted to bring resources to my community after the conversation with the late Tone McDuffie. We decided to have a Juneteenth Celebration on the Northside of Wilmington. With collaboration from different agencies throughout the community, it came to life. We put together a free event to all aged citizens with community resources, food and fun. We are coming up on our 4th year for our Annual Juneteenth Celebration.