The Community Challenge was created to provide immediate, meaningful support to Union County’s food pantries during a time of increased need. This page offers an overview for food pantry partners interested in understanding how the initiative functions, how funds are distributed, and how the Union County Foundation coordinates efforts to ensure help reaches the families who need it most.
Powering Food Assistance Through Community Partnership
How it Works
But first… Why it Matters
The Community Challenge began as an idea from 2nd Chances Thrift Store, who launched the initiative and provided $5,000 in matching funds. From there, the Union County Foundation took on the full responsibility of making it happen, coordinating with the Health Department, Food Council, United Way, and local leaders to ensure donations are distributed effectively to Union County’s ten local food pantries.
This collaboration demonstrates how UCF’s Emergency Needs Fund works in practice: it provides a way to collect and distribute resources efficiently when opportunities or challenges arise, strengthening connections among local organizations and reinforcing the safety net for families in Union County.
Apply for Emergency Food Assistance Funding
Union County food pantries can request support through the Union County Foundation’s Emergency Needs Fund. This page outlines the steps to apply, receive funds, and report back—ensuring donations are distributed fairly, transparently, and where they’re needed most.
Step 1: Apply for Support
Union County food pantries may request funding by completing a brief application. You’ll be asked to provide:
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Organization details (name, contact info, and mailing address for checks)
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Service data (households and individuals served, new vs. returning clients, any recent trends)
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Impact projection (how the funds will be used and how many additional households you expect to serve)
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Accountability agreement (confirming funds will be spent only on food or food-related items; receipts due within 30 days)
Submit an Application
Step 2: Receive Funds
Approved pantries will receive funding via check. These funds are designated for:
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Food purchases
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Food-related items, such as shelving, refrigerators, freezers, or other storage and distribution needs
Step 3: Report Back
After funds have been used, pantries complete a short follow-up report to share measurable impact. The report asks for:
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Households and individuals served during the reporting period
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How the funds helped (e.g., expanded inventory, purchased equipment)
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Trends or changes you’re seeing
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One impact story
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Receipts for all purchases (emailed to UCF)
Submit Follow-Up Report
Why These Steps Matter
These requirements help us ensure:
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Transparency for donors who make this support possible
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Accountability for responsible use of funds
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Impact tracking to understand how community support directly helps neighbors facing food insecurity
If you have questions or need assistance, please contact us at info@unioncountyfoundation.org.
