In a move that marks a new chapter for the organization, Shepherds Staff, a dedicated community resource providing support for food security, has recently relocated to a new facility at 10994 HWY South 226, in the TRACTOR building. This larger, more accessible location allows Shepherds Staff to better serve the community with expanded hours—open Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 9 AM to 3 PM. The new space also facilitates the introduction of “client choice” shopping, where individuals can select the food items that best meet their needs, all free of charge.
A recent grant from AMY Wellness Foundation has enabled Shepherd Staff to collaborate with other local organizations to expand food distribution efforts, increase staffing, and enhance the overall experience for those in need.
This grant has not only empowered Shepherds Staff to purchase more food but also enabled the organization to collaborate with the Mitchell County Transportation Authority. This partnership ensures that transportation is no barrier to receiving assistance. Through this collaboration, residents can either travel to the new location to self-shop or receive prepacked boxes delivered directly to their homes, all at no cost.
“We are incredibly grateful for the support from the AMY Wellness Foundation,” said Starli McDowell, Executive Director of Shepherds Staff. “This funding has allowed us to expand our operations and collaborate with other organizations in ways that were previously unimaginable. Our goal has always been to provide dignified, accessible food support to our community, and this grant has made it possible for us to reach even more people. The introduction of client choice shopping at our new location is a significant step forward in empowering our clients to take control of their food needs.”
Sheila Blalock, Mitchell County Director of Transportation, added, “The partnership with Shepherds Staff is a perfect example of how local organizations can work together to make a real difference in the lives of our residents. By providing free transportation to and from Shepherds Staff, we are removing a major obstacle for those who might otherwise struggle to access these essential services. We are proud to be part of this collaborative effort to support our community.”
As Shepherds Staff continues to grow and adapt to the needs of the community, the organization remains committed to its mission of ensuring that no one in Mitchell County goes hungry. With the continued support of the AMY Wellness Foundation and the collaboration of local partners, Shepherds Staff is well-equipped to meet the challenges ahead and to provide even more comprehensive support to those in need.
For more information about Shepherds Staff and the services they provide, please visit their new location at 10994 HWY South 226, or contact them at 828-385-6153.
