RALEIGH, N.C., Dec. 16, 2024  — North Raleigh Ministries is launching a public fundraising appeal to ensure more Raleigh community members can receive the resources, programs, and individualized care and support they need to thrive. For the past 20 years, North Raleigh Ministries has served Raleigh individuals and families in crisis. The public funding appeal will enable North Raleigh Ministries to serve more participants, hire additional staff, and develop new programs to serve people living in 11 of Raleigh’s 15 zip codes. North Raleigh Ministries opened its new Crisis and Development Center at 2809 E. Millbrook in early 2024 after launching a capital campaign called “Building Strong Foundations.” Thanks to a $1M grant from Wake County and additional funding from its partners and corporate donors, that 19,300-square-foot facility houses a food pantry, program staff offices, classrooms, and private and group meeting space. North Raleigh Ministries provides resources and skills to people unable to meet basic living needs.

Pictured left to right:  Charles Breeding, NRM Board Chair, Jason Horton, Strategic Initiatives Director, Wake County Government, Joshua Starling, NRM Development Director

North Raleigh Ministries Building Strong Foundations Public Phase

“North Raleigh Ministries is unique because of faith and evidence-based practices. We offer three main programs. We build relationships by providing various food support options to help those in need with tangible resources. If participants are ready to make significant life changes, our coaching programs ensure they have the tools and educational support to move toward financial preparedness. And if they are in crisis, our pastoral care gently guides them toward stability,” said Lesley Funk, Director of Programs at North Raleigh Ministries.

“I’ve learned to believe in myself since coming to North Raleigh Ministries,” said Chimarri, a North Raleigh Ministries participant. “I’ve learned to budget, balance, and speak to people. It’s been a 360 change since I got here. It helped me with endurance and with my faith. And now I am a peer volunteer here, so I can help others by sharing information and resources with them.”

“It makes you feel like you are part of something,” said Finessa, a North Raleigh Ministries participant, “Any time that you offer your community resources that are funded by your neighbors. It makes it a better place to live.”

To donate to the “Building Strong Foundations” campaign, visit https://buildingstrongfoundations.org/give/.

North Raleigh Ministries is Thrilled to be the Recipient of a New Food Truck

A game-changing addition to our Food Support Programs! This truck will allow us to source more fresh, local foods for our pantry, ensuring that individuals and families facing food insecurity have access to nutritious, high-quality options.

This incredible project was made possible through the generosity of our donors and supporters. A special lead gift was made by Bob Bastek, Sr., in loving memory of his late wife, Patricia. Bob shared, “Patricia worked alongside me at the food pantry in Edenton. This truck bears her name as a tribute to an amazing woman, a gifted nurse, and the light of my life. She would be proud to see this truck provide assistance to those served by North Raleigh Ministries.”

We also extend our deepest gratitude to Sterling Chiropractic and Wake County’s Pantry Innovation Grant for playing a vital role in making this vision a reality.

North Raleigh Ministries Names Board Room in Honor of Former Board Chair Rick Menzel Gift from Bell-Cook Family Foundation Recognizes Leadership and Legacy

North Raleigh Ministries (NRM) is proud to announce the naming of its new board room as the Bell-Cook Family Foundation Board Room, in honor of Rick Menzel, who served as Board Chair from 2022 to 2023 and continues to serve as a dedicated volunteer. This tribute recognizes Menzel’s lasting impact on the ministry and was made possible by a generous gift from the Bell-Cook Family Foundation.

Located at NRM’s new Crisis & Development Center, the Bell-Cook Family Foundation Board Room stands as a symbol of leadership, integrity, and community partnership. The room was funded as part of the organization’s ongoing Building Strong Foundations campaign—a $4 million initiative focused on nourishing, equipping, and empowering neighbors in need.

Fairley Bell-Cook of the Bell-Cook Family Foundation shared why the gift and naming were so meaningful:

“Supporting North Raleigh Ministries was an easy decision, not only because of the meaningful work they do every day, but because of the leadership and heart behind it. Rick Menzel has been a steady, faithful leader—someone who gives generously of his time, wisdom, and resources. Naming the Board Room in his honor felt like a fitting way to recognize his impact and legacy with NRM. It’s also a way to inspire others who walk through those doors to lead with the same integrity, humility, and servant-heartedness that Rick brings to everything he does.”

Bell-Cook added:

“I believe in supporting organizations that empower people and offer real pathways to stability and dignity—and that’s exactly what North Raleigh Ministries does. Their programs go beyond food and address the deeper needs families face. When you give to NRM, you’re not just meeting a need for today—you’re helping individuals and families build a stronger tomorrow. It’s a powerful mission, and one I’m proud to stand behind.”

Rick Menzel, who has served NRM with distinction through his board leadership and ongoing volunteer service, expressed deep gratitude for the recognition:

“This gift is a very gratifying and humbling honor. I am heartened to be part of an organization such as NRM, one that is committed to helping each person reach their full potential. It is also encouraging that there are groups and individuals such as the Bell-Cook Family Foundation— strong Christian people who share God’s vision and NRM’s vision. Additionally, it is inspiring that there are so many others in our community who share that vision—the staff, the volunteers, the donors—who are devoted to sustainability, to stability, and to success for all God’s people.”

North Raleigh Ministries is a trusted nonprofit serving Raleigh, NC. Through its Healthy Food Pantry, Crisis & Development programs, and two Thrift Shoppes, NRM provides individualized support that moves people beyond crisis toward stability and flourishing.

Building Strong Foundations is the most ambitious fundraising campaign in the history of North Raleigh Ministries, with a goal of $4 million in private support. The campaign focuses on expanding our services so that we can serve more of our community. You can learn more about the campaign and how to get involved by clicking here.