Special to IFN
FeedNC, a Mooresville-based nonprofit, has launched a first-of-its-kind Emergency Epinephrine Initiative to make its free community dining center safer for families and individuals with food allergies.
As part of the initiative, FeedNC now stores an FDA-approved epinephrine nasal spray, neffy, on site for emergency use, allowing every guest to dine with greater confidence and safety. Rooted in the belief that everyone, regardless of circumstance, deserves nutritious food and good people in their lives, Donoghue’s Open Door at FeedNC has grown from its beginnings as a local soup kitchen to a community dining center that uses donated food to create a shared, welcoming mealtime experience.
“At FeedNC, every neighbor is welcome at our table, including those with food allergies,” said Brittany Holbert, chief operating officer. “We provide allergy-friendly menu options, train our staff and volunteers in food allergy safety, and take every precaution possible to prevent cross-contact in our kitchen. But the reality is that one in 13 children and one in 10 adults live with a food allergy, and severe reactions can happen in an instant. Immediate intervention saves lives, and this initiative ensures that we are ready to act the moment an allergic reaction occurs.”
To prepare for the initiative, FeedNC staff completed the American Red Cross training in Anaphylaxis and Epinephrine Auto-Injector Administration, as well as the Recognizing and Responding to Anaphylaxis program from FARE (Food Allergy Research & Education), which provides step-by-step instruction for administering emergency epinephrine.
The initiative was funded by Duke Health Lake Norman Hospital, whose support made this work possible.
“Food allergies can become life-threatening within minutes, and access to emergency epinephrine can mean the difference between life and death,” said Kristie Barazsu, president and COO of Duke Health Lake Norman Hospital. “By supporting this initiative, we’re advancing best practices in emergency preparedness so those facing a severe allergic reaction can be met with care, compassion, and readiness.”
FOODiversity, a national nonprofit based in Mooresville and a longtime partner of FeedNC, played a key role in bringing the initiative to life by providing food allergy education and connecting FeedNC with essential partners and resources.
“FOODiversity is honored to partner with FeedNC in advancing our shared mission to reduce barriers to access, improve long-term health outcomes, and strengthen our community’s food system,” said Wendy Gordon Pake, executive director of FOODiversity. “We are proud to support this effort.”
School Health Corporation also supported this initiative by helping secure medical authorization for neffy, ensuring full regulatory compliance, and providing comprehensive training resources.
“neffy’s needle-free design enables staff to respond quickly and confidently,” said Gina Streepy, senior director of Product and Business Development at School Health. “FeedNC’s dedication to community safety aligns perfectly with our mission to foster healthier, safer communities.”
As one of the first community dining centers in the country to implement this level of preparedness, FeedNC’s Emergency Epinephrine Initiative raises the bar for safety and community care.
About FeedNC
FeedNC creates connections to food, education, and resources as a catalyst for change in the Mooresville area and beyond. Guided by values of compassion, dignity, connection, and accountability, FeedNC provides meals, grocery assistance, workforce training, and supportive services to thousands of individuals and families each year.