Bear’s Smokehouse BBQ Sets Ambitious Goal to Nourish 4,000 Daily in Western North Carolina Through March

Bear’s Smokehouse BBQ in Asheville, N.C. is seeking donations to continue providing meals to those in need in Western North Carolina. The charitable foundation aims to feed 4,000 people daily until March, following the end of World Central Kitchen’s operations on December 15.

Following the devastating impacts of Hurricane Helene, Bear’s Smokehouse BBQ collaborated with World Central Kitchen to deliver over 1.2 million meals to affected communities in Western North Carolina. As World Central Kitchen prepares to conclude its operations in the area on December 15, Bear’s Smokehouse BBQ is stepping in to fill the gap. The charitable foundation is now seeking donations to sustain its feeding initiative, which aims to provide 360,000 meals to 4,000 individuals daily until March.

The initiative is projected to cost approximately $1.65 million, with meals targeted for delivery to hard-hit areas such as Black Mountain and Swannanoa, as well as to residents in Transitional Sheltering Assistance hotel shelters. Co-owner Cheryl Antoncic emphasized the ongoing need for hot meals in the region, stating, “What we need now is for people to understand that the need is still out there.”

Bear’s Foundation will partner with the Equal Plates Project to ensure the continuity of the feeding operation while Bear’s Smokehouse BBQ resumes regular business operations. Antoncic has initiated a GoFundMe campaign to support this vital effort, highlighting the urgency of the situation as the foundation seeks to secure the necessary funds before World Central Kitchen’s departure.

In summary, Bear’s Smokehouse BBQ is committed to addressing food insecurity in Western North Carolina by providing meals to those in need. With the support of the community and partnerships, they aim to continue their vital services through March, ensuring that no one goes hungry during this critical time.