Religious Community Services Reaffirms Commitment to Neighbors Facing
Food Insecurity
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
[New Bern, NC] – [October 30, 2025] – Since its founding in 1982, Religious Community
Services (RCS) has remained steadfast in its mission to combat food insecurity in our
community. RCS understands that recent changes affecting the Supplemental Nutrition
Assistance Program (SNAP) may create new and immediate challenges for many families.
Today, as many of our neighbors face increased difficulty putting food on the table, RCS is
reaffirming its unwavering commitment to provide the reliable, essential programs and services
the community has come to know and trust.
“The need in our community is real, and our commitment to meeting that need is stronger than
ever,” says Candice Parker, Executive Director. “For over four decades, we’ve operated on the
belief that no one in our community should go hungry. That mission is as true and vital today as
it was in 1982. We are here, and we are open, thanks to the continuous support of a
compassionate community.
Reliable Programs to Meet Neighbors’ Needs
RCS is dedicated to ensuring food access is consistent and accessible through multiple programs,
with no eligibility requirements for any of its direct food distributions:
- Food Pantry: Grocery assistance is available to individuals and families every three
months. Client Services is open for appointments Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m.
to 4:00 p.m. Call 252-633-2767 to schedule an appointment. - Community Kitchen: Hot, nutritious meals are served 365 days a year. Entrance to the
Community Kitchen is on Cypress Street.
◦ Lunch: Monday – Saturday, 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
◦ Breakfast: Sundays at 8:00 a.m. - Operation Outpost (Mobile Food Distribution): A mobile food pantry serves residents
in Havelock (The Gathering Place) and Pamlico (Contentnea Health) on the first and
third Wednesdays at 5pm, respectively, of the month. - Pop-Up Food Distributions: Additional food distributions are held on Tuesday and
Friday afternoons starting at 2:00 p.m in the Community Kitchen.
A Call to Action: Help Us Feed Our Neighbors
RCS depends on the generosity of individuals, groups, businesses and faith communities who
share the core belief that no one should go hungry. The community can join this effort through
three vital ways:
- Make a Monetary Donation
Cash donations give RCS the greatest flexibility, allowing the organization to use its purchasing
power to secure the food items clients need most, often at a significant discount. You can specify
that your gift is restricted solely to the food programs.
- Online: Visit our website at www.rcsnewbern.com.
- Text: Text RCSFEEDS to 53-555.
- Mail: Send a check to P.O. Box 704, New Bern, NC 28560.
- Workplace Giving: Check to see if your employer offers a donation matching program
to double your impact.
- Host a Food Drive
Help keep RCS’ Warehouse and Food Pantry stocked with essential, shelf-stable goods. Contact
RCS to find out which items are most needed this month. - Volunteer Your Time
RCS depends on dedicated volunteers to ensure the smooth operation of all food programs. We
urgently need help sorting, moving, and distributing food. Please contact our volunteer
coordinator to find a shift that works for you. Call 252-633-2767, x4014.
About Religious Community Services
At Religious Community Services (RCS), we serve our community with compassion and faith.
Since 1982, we have met the basic needs of individuals and families facing hardship by
providing food, clothing, shelter and supportive services. Through our programs and services,
we: Build Supportive Community, Engage People Holistically, & Empower Permanent Life
Change.