HIGH POINT, N.C. (WGHP) — The need is at an all-time high at Open Door Ministries in High Point.
The organization is helping a record number of people. This time last year, Open Door Ministries served about 3,500 meals per month. By December 2023, hat number shot up to more than 12,000 meals.
They’re seeing similar trends with the food pantry. They helped about 150 families per month early last year and are now up to more than 500.
“Right now the current numbers show in January, we’re going to even surpass that,” said Orel Henry, director of operations.
It’s something Henry has never seen before. The workers in the food pantry are packing up more items than ever before and handing them out to people who’ve never needed assistance like this before.
“Regular folks that have regular jobs, we’re seeing them,” said Henry. “I know I’ve personally seen about 30% of those that has come to our shelter every day for food.”
The cooks in the kitchen are making additional hot meals, and people are lining up at the door to receive them.