MANNA! is an ecumenical and ­community effort to feed the hungry of Moore County effectively and efficiently by providing prepared meals that are taken to dining sites in areas of need. 

Through a multi-church outreach ­program, MANNA! (Moore Alliance Nourishing Neighbors Amen!) has ­provided more than 20,000 lunches in just about two years. The organization ­currently serves lunches at different times throughout Moore County. 

More than 150 volunteers from 10 churches, three community groups and two school groups (Pinecrest High School and Pickney Academy), help ­prepare the meals. Church organizations include Emmanuel Episcopal Church, Our Saviour Lutheran Church, Page Memorial Methodist Church, Brownson Memorial Presbyterian Church, St. James Lutheran Church, Taylor Memorial Baptist Church, First Baptist Church of Aberdeen, Roseland United Methodist Church, Christ Church Anglican and Ingram Branch Presbyterian Church.

The community groups who help ­prepare the meals are the Primetimers, Sandhills Singles and the Woodlake Lunch Belles.

Spaulding Chapel A.M.E. Zion Church, Trinity A.M.E. Zion Church, Word of Truth Christian Church and Love Grove Free Will Baptist Church are MANNA! distribution sites.

Panera Bread Company has also become an important member of the team by donating leftover bakery items several evenings a week.

MANNA! is a registered nonprofit 501 (c) (3) corporation, which means that all donations are tax-deductible. MANNA! is also a member of the Food Bank of North Carolina. This allows MANNA! partners to obtain food from the Moore County Food Bank at minimal cost. 

To find out more about MANNA!, to make donations, to volunteer or for ­dining sites and schedules, call Director John Roberts at (910) 235-5271 or President Don Barcus at (910) 949-2921.