Big problem for local non-profit that does big work in Charlotte

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Bethany McDonald weaves her way through a massive warehouse, filled with box after box, row after row, freezer after freezer, all full of food and supplies. “Having 16, 17 fridges and freezers does draw a lot of power,” she remarks. McDoland runs Hearts United for Good, or “HUGCLT.” Through partnerships and private donations, the non-profit brings in up to 50 pallets of food every week at their north Charlotte warehouse. And then, she says, “We’re then taking that and distributing it to smaller organizations.” Smaller organizations like churches, food pantries, senior facilities and more. “What we’re doing is getting all of this product to them free of charge,” explains McDonald.

It’s incredible work.

But.

“But we need the space to store it. And that’s that’s what this place has been for us, up until now,” says McDonald.

The warehouse on North Tryon Street has been sold. And McDonald needs to find a new warehouse before December 1st. She estimates they need about 10,000 square feet, a location close to the communities they serve, and reasonable rent so they can spend their money on people, not property.

McDonald says, “We don’t want to scale back because that means people are going to go without.”

HUGCLT started around the pandemic. It’s grown exponentially since then. McDonald hopes to see the growth continue, driven by community and this simple concept: “If you’re a human being and you’re in need, we’re going to take care of you,” she says.

If you’d like to help, or have a lead on a warehouse that might work, email executivedirector@hugclt.org.