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Oct. 24--They'll offer a free hot meal. They'll offer information, clothing, even a free flu shot.
But mainly, the volunteers at Tuesday's eighth annual F.E.E.D. Fayetteville project will offer hope.
And with the current state of things in the Cape Fear region, hope might be the most welcome gift of all.
"It's a community-wide opportunity for people seeking help," said Crystal Moore-McNair. The commissioner is spearheading the one-day, multi-agency blitz, at Fayetteville's Salvation Army shelter on Alexander Street.
"There are so many people who need information and help in our community," she said. "We want to help them in any way we can."
F.E.E.D. Fayetteville-Cumberland (the name is an acronym for "Faith Community Enjoying Evolved Human Development") was created by the county's Communities of Faith Dialogue committee. Think of it as the incarnation of the "Give a man a fish" proverb.
McNair said they expect to feed as many as 1,500 people during the day.
Those looking for information will find everything from health screenings to college training programs.
"The first thing people think about is the mass feeding," McNair said. "But there's so much more than that involved.
"Fayetteville State University and Fayetteville Tech will be on hand with information. Health groups will be available. There will be something there for the body, mind and spirit."
This year's program includes help for veterans. The Veterans Affairs has partnered with F.E.E.D. Fayetteville, rather than hold its November "Operation Stand Down" program.
"We're delighted to have them join us," McNair said. "They bring a wealth of information and expertise to us."
Of course, all this helps no one if they can't get there. That's why the city's FAST routes will be free to anyone attending the program.
"All someone will have to do is tell the driver that they're coming to F.E.E.D. Fayetteville," McNair said.
The event begins at noon. There is no charge to people attending, and proof of need will not be required. Donations and contributions cover the bulk of the costs, and all the work is done by volunteers.
"From serving meals to sorting donated clothing to helping find the right people to help, there's no way this could be pulled off without all the volunteers," McNair said.
