Fresh produce donations and the SHARE Food Network at New Samaritan Baptist Church (NSBC) are two programs available to support a healthy community through nutrition. Both programs are under the Missionary Ministry at NSBC, which is located at 1100 Florida Avenue NE.

Each Thursday at 11:00 am NSBC has a free fresh produce giveaway. This program is open to the public and they request that people bring their own bags (and some patience). All will be served until all of the produce items are disbursed. On the third Saturday each month (10 am to noon) the AGAPE Closet is open for canned goods distribution and also used clothing.

Catholic Charities runs a SHARE Food Network for healthier families and stronger community. Through the SHARE program here in the DC metropolitan area affordable and nutritious groceries are sold at volunteer-run locations. The monthly value packages cost just $21 and include $40-$50 worth of basic and healthy groceries, typically made up of 4-5 pounds of frozen protein products, 1-3 grocery items, and 8-9 pounds of fresh produce. Savings of almost 50% off grocery store pricing is achieved through bulk ordering and volunteer support. Additional FAQs about the SHARE Food Network is on the website (http://www.catholiccharitiesdc.org/SHAREfaq).

NSBC is a volunteer-run host site for the SHARE Food Network. The program is open to everyone and there are no income or other limits on participation. SHARE accepts cash, food stamps, money orders, and organizational checks. The contact person for the SHARE Program is Susan Harper. She may be reached at (202) 547-5839 to schedule orders and for any additional information on dates of share bag availability. They are normally ready for pick up on the last Saturday each month, depending on holiday schedules.

These are great programs that can help our neighbors. Please share the information with those that may be interested!