Goodwill Community Cupboard is a brand new 7,600-square-foot market (at the flashing traffic signal on Hwy 33) offering healthful foods, including fresh fruits and vegetables, proteins, non-perishable foods, and additional food staples. Goodwill’s goals are to reduce food deserts across eastern North Carolina, remove barriers to economic success, and provide accessibility to relevant educational programs.
“A growing body of research confirms that equitable access to food, education, and employment opportunities serves as a vital cornerstone of community wellness,” said Christopher Hash, president & CEO. “These critical resources represent the core social determinants of health that dictate quality of life and longevity.”
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) defines “food deserts” as “parts of the country vapid of fresh fruit, vegetables, and other healthful whole foods.” At least 500 people and/or at least 33 percent of the population must live more than one mile from a supermarket or large grocery store. For rural areas, the distance is more than 10 miles – Aurora and Richland Township easily qualify.
When families have more reliable access to healthy food, children are better equipped to learn, adults are more reliable at work, and seniors can remain independent longer,” Hash said. “Our Community Cupboard initiative represents the physical manifestation of the organization’s vision of Transforming Lives Through Opportunities. We’re humbled by the opportunity to support Aurora as it continues to thrive and become stronger, healthier, and more vibrant.”
The store is open Monday-Saturday 10am to 7pm, and Sunday noon to 6pm’
