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CORA is Growing!

Posted on: January 16, 2025

On July 1, 2025, CORA is going to expand by opening a second choice food pantry in Siler City, on the site of the current West Chatham Food Pantry. Our new site will be modeled after our current pantry and operations.

 

Through our choice food pantry in Pittsboro and complimentary programs, we support thousands of individuals and families, ensuring they have the food they need to thrive. As our county continues to grow and change, the need for our services also grows. In recent years, we have observed a significant increase in residents in western Chatham County, particularly in Siler City, who experience food insecurity. Many of these individuals must travel long distances to access our current services. This creates barriers that prevent them from getting help when they need it most.

 

  • In Siler City, nearly 29% of residents live below the poverty line
  • The median household income in Siler City is $40,440, which is lower than the national average
  • The distance to CORA can be a challenge for families in western Chatham County
  • 49% of those CORA already serves live in Siler City
  • Requests for CORA’s assistance have risen by about 40% overall

 

Modeled after our current operations, CORA’s Siler City pantry will be a full-service facility designed for choice shopping, allowing community members to select food based on their preferences and dietary needs. This approach not only addresses food insecurity but also promotes empowerment, nutritional variety, community connections, and education.

 

This is an exciting opportunity for growth and will be a big step in realizing our vision of a community without hunger. Our Goals for the expansion are to:

 

Expand Our Reach

Serve more families than ever before, including those who may have previously been unserved or underserved.

Increase Accessibility

Bring help closer to home so every family in Western Chatham County can access the nutritious foods they need without the burden of a long drive.

Enable Greater Adaptability

Identify and respond to challenges faced by different communities.

Enhance Community Connections

Grow and empower a network of compassionate volunteers, donors, partner, schools, and businesses to support a strong, united community where everyone plays a role in lifting up their neighbors.

 

Over the next six months, will be sharing more information about what this expansion will look like and how you can get involved. Your steadfast support plays a big role in CORA’s ability to sustain our operations, expand to meet higher needs, and adapt to better serve our community. Thank you for being a part of this journey!