Food for Thought is celebrating 20 years of serving Dare County children’s nutritional needs with an anniversary fund-raising gala Sunday, Oct. 18, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., at the Duck Woods Country Club in Southern Shores.
Guests will enjoy a dinner prepared by Duck Woods Executive Chef Dan Lewis (formerly of Coastal Provisions); a silent and live auction of donated art, gift certificates from local shops and restaurants, and unique local experiences; and an evening of music with a live DJ.
Food for Thought came together 20 years ago behind the concept that if children are hungry, their ability to think, learn, and develop will be impeded. Hunger will threaten their growth and academic progress.
To enable children to nourish their minds, co-founder Helen Ford of Southern Shores sought to feed them on weekends when free public-school breakfasts and lunches were not available. She wanted to fill the nutrition gap.
Ms. Ford’s mission grew from a pilot program that served weekend meal bags in February 2006 to 54 children at Manteo Elementary School whose families were income-eligible, into a non-profit organization that serves weekend and holiday breakfasts, lunches, and snacks to all eligible Dare County elementary and middle school students and snacks to high school students.
From the basic idea of nourish bodies, nourish minds, Food for Thought was born.
Ed Hazlett (ret. USAF) co-founded the non-profit with Ms. Ford. The organization now serves roughly 700 to 800 students each week, and about 300 volunteers pack and deliver the food bags to schools.
Food for Thought also provides grocery gift cards for families in need, distributes hygiene products, and supplies clothing and shoes, according to the organization.
Administered exclusively by volunteers, the non-profit is supported by many local sponsors who have donated funding, essential products, clothing, hands-on help, and time to this unique community outreach program. To learn about the organization’s community partners, see:
A ticket to the 20th anniversary gala costs $100. “Sponsorship” dinner tables may be purchased for $1,000 (four guests), $1500 (six guests), or $2,000 (a premier table for eight). You may buy your tickets at:
There will be ample opportunity for anniversary celebration guests to mingle with volunteers, donors, sponsors, and others associated with Food for Thought. The event is designed to raise funds and support for children experiencing hardship in Dare County.
Among the items that will be auctioned are:
- 40 pieces of art from local artists (including a Marcia Cline)
- A golf round for four, including carts, at Duck Wood Country Club
- A wine tasting with charcuterie board for 12 people at Trio Restaurant & Market in Kitty Hawk
- A Breezy Bar experience for 20 people featuring a Charcuterie & Vintage Mobile Bar
- Gift certificates from Allie June boutique in Duck; N.C. Coast/Red Sky restaurants in Duck; Black Pelican restaurant in Kitty Hawk; Ella’s Olive in Duck; Olives A Greek Kitchen in Manteo; Rock-a-Bye Baby OBX in Nags Head, and more.
“Whether you attend the celebration, become a sponsor, or make a tax-deductible donation,” said Bobbie Murray, president of Food for Thought, “your support provides nutritious meals, essential items, and hope for children who need it most.
“Every gift, regardless of size, makes a meaningful difference.”
Duck Woods Country Club is located at 50 South Dogwood Trail in Southern Shores. There is ample parking.
By Ann G. Sjoerdsma, The Southern Shores Beacon, 9/30/26
