Our History
Hearts and Hands Food Pantry was founded in 2017 by Sandra Marks and her daughter, Kenya Joseph. The idea to start their food pantry came from an unexpected place. They were watching a show where a family was using extreme couponing to supply a neighboring family whose father had lost his job. Sandra and Kenya immediately looked at each other and said "Wow, we can do that!" Both were lead to immediately think bigger and the pantry was born. Almost seven years later, Hearts and Hands Food Pantry has served over 72,000 people in and around Charlotte and continues to provide long-term support to elderly and disabled clients and those suffering catastrophic loss from the pandemic.
He who is gracious and lends a hand to the poor lends to the Lord, and the Lord will repay him for his good deed.
- Proverbs 19:17
Our Mission
FOOD IS A BASIC HUMAN RIGHT. ​
This belief in our hearts guides us in our strong commitment to combating food insecurity, expanding food access and creating food equity.​
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Hearts and Hands Food Pantry is one of the only fully independent food pantries in all of North Carolina, allowing our services to be easily accessible and low-barrier, so that anyone can get the help they need, for as long as they need.
Our Vision
Hearts and Hands Food Pantry continues to grow and expand to serve more people. Through new partnerships, innovations and community connection, we are excited to soon launch new programs to provide more food access in under-served neighborhoods and food deserts in our metro area. We are continually expanding the variety of food items we provide with the ultimate goal of providing fresh, nutritious choices to anyone in need.
We minister to the body and spirit of those in need
Because everyone deserves access to healthy, affordable food
Driven by our core belief that access to food is a fundamental human right, Hearts and Hands Food Pantry is dedicated to combating food insecurity, ensuring equitable access to nutritious food, and fostering food equity in our community. Through collaborative partnerships, innovative initiatives, and expanded food access programs, we are committed to eradicating hunger and creating a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
