As Cold Sets In, Davidson County Shelters and Pantries Seek Help
With Thanksgiving less than two weeks away and overnight temperatures dropping, the people who run Davidson County's shelters and food pantries say the need this season is steady and growing.
Why demand is up
The pressure on local pantries goes beyond the holidays. SNAP enrollment in North Carolina fell 12.2% between July 2025 and April 2026, according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, and state food bank leaders say families who lose benefits are turning to community pantries instead. In September, Feeding the Carolinas reported that many food banks in the region were seeing need 30% or more above the previous year.
Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest North Carolina, which supplies many Davidson County pantries, estimates that one in five children across its 18-county service area faces hunger.
Shelter space is also tight. During January's winter weather, Davidson Local reported that DC First Hope, the county's main adult shelter, had just 12 beds available.
Where help is needed
Unity United Methodist Church Opens 7 days a week for men. Check in begins at 6:30 pm.
608 National Highway
Thomasville
Unity United Methodist Women’s Shelter
608 Nationali Highway
Davidson County First Hope Ministries (formerly Crisis Ministry of Davidson County) runs a 24-hour adult shelter and the Genesis House family shelter, along with a food bank and clothing bank open weekdays, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The ministry asks for monetary donations and volunteers. 107 E. 1st Ave., Lexington · 336-248-6684.
Family Services of Davidson County says it always needs non-perishable food for its pantry, plus clothing, toys and household goods for families staying in its shelters. Unused gift cards are welcome, and an Amazon wish list covers everyday items for the Hattie Lee Burgess Home. Drop-offs: 1303 Greensboro St. Ext., Lexington.
The Salvation Army of Davidson County operates a food pantry, a soup kitchen and rent and utility assistance. Holiday bell ringers and food-box volunteers are typically needed this time of year. 314 W. 9th Ave., Lexington · 336-249-2532.
Food pantries accepting donations
Call ahead for drop-off times and current needs.
Davidson Community Action (Lexington) · 336-249-0234
Open Hands Ministry (Lexington) · 336-242-6142
Pastors Pantry, serving seniors (Lexington) · 336-249-8824
Thomasville Community Ministry · 336-476-1842
His Grace, His Souper Kitchen (Thomasville) · 336-475-3152
House of Provision (Thomasville) · 336-689-6143
South Davidson Family Resource Center (Denton) · 336-859-5399
What to give
Pantry staff often say cash goes furthest, because food banks can buy in bulk. For physical donations, shelf-stable proteins (canned tuna, chicken, peanut butter), cereal, canned fruit and vegetables, and hygiene items are reliable choices. For shelters and warming stations, coats, gloves, hats, blankets and new socks are in demand as the weather turns.
Know of a shelter or pantry we missed? Email Davidson Local and we'll add it to our list.
