FORSYTH COUNTY -- A class project at Wake Forest University has now turned into a community-wide program to feed those in need.
Monica Banks, third-year Master of Divinity student at Wake Forest University, said growing up her family was very poor.
"Our food came from food banks,” said Banks. “We were kind of before the backpack programs, so my sister and I would go from Friday to Sunday not eating. I am really passionate about kids eating."
Banks channeled that passion for food justice during her Food, Faith, and Health in Community course.
"I wanted to do something where I could learn practical applications of my theological training and my ministry opportunities, and there was an opportunity through the United Way of Forsyth County for a place-based grant."
Banks and her group drafted and submitted the grant proposal and were awarded $80,000 for the 2016-17 fiscal year to fund New Communion Mobile Market and Pantry.
"This is kind of our starting point," said Banks.
The mobile pantry is a ministry that two to three times a week distributes free food to one of 13 diverse neighborhoods in Forsyth County on a rotational basis.
"The residents get a sense of people actually caring about them and actually appreciating some of the struggles and hardships that they're going through," said LaDeara Crest Estates Resident Service Coordinator Ike Black.
On a weekly basis the organization is able to serve anywhere from 80 to 100 families.
For more information, visit the organization's website.