Inter-Faith Council for Social Service

Overview

The Inter-Faith Council for Social Service is a nonprofit organization in the United States, committed to addressing poverty and social issues within the communities of Chapel Hill and Carrboro, North Carolina. Founded in 1963, the organization has evolved to provide comprehensive services aimed at supporting homeless individuals, promoting food security, and advocating for affordable housing.

History

Since its inception, the Inter-Faith Council has expanded its services to include a residential facility for homeless men in Orange County. Over the years, the organization has started offering mental health services to low-income individuals and has initiated programs to distribute fresh, local foods to those in need[1]. In 2011, the Chapel Hill Town Council approved a special use permit for a new, more extensive homeless shelter. This facility was designed to replace the existing shelter and included amenities such as an exercise room, workspaces, a medical facility, and a dental clinic. Groundbreaking for this new community house occurred on May 5, 2014[1].

Programs and Services

• Shelter Services: The organization provided 34,039 nights of shelter to men, women, and families during the fiscal year 2022-23[2].
• Food Security: The Inter-Faith Council operates a community kitchen as part of its FoodFirst initiative, which focuses on providing healthy, locally sourced food[1].
• Health Services: Mental health services are available for low-income individuals, emphasizing holistic support[1].

Community Engagement

The Inter-Faith Council actively participates in community events, such as the Chapel Hill/Carrboro CROP Hunger Walk. This annual event brings together local congregations and organizations to raise funds that help combat hunger in the community[2]. The organization's mission is built on the belief that everyone deserves dignified and affordable housing, healthy food, and meaningful social connections[3].

[1] https://www.dailytarheel.com/section/interfaith_council [2] https://www.ifcweb.org [3] https://www.instagram.com/ifcforsocialservice/