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The Outer Banks Association of REALTORS’^® (OBAR) Young Professionals Network and Membership Services Committees participated in NC REALTORS^® Give Back Week by holding a food drive benefitting the Beach Food Pantry. While NC REALTORS^® Give Back Week ended June 12, the committees decided to extend the drive until June 30, 2022.

OBAR Young Professional Network Chair Christian Lawrence of Saga Realty and Construction says, “We wanted to give back to our community, specifically the Beach Food Pantry. Currently there are an estimated 5,600 people in Dare County who are food insecure. This includes over 1,000 children.

“This community is known for pulling together for anyone in need, and we are hoping that our community will do so now through this food drive,” continued Lawrence.

OBAR’s Membership Services Chair Kim Endre says, “The National Association of REALTOR^® Association is the largest trade organization in the world and the Outer Banks Association is the largest in the region. REALTORS^® have some of the highest rates in volunteerism among other trade organizations, which is why we celebrate our annual REALTORS^® Give Back Day.

“This food drive isn’t just about REALTORS® giving back, we are hoping that everyone in the Outer Banks, including visitors, take a moment to contribute. This can be done by donating non-perishable items, money, or volunteer time,” continued Endre.

Monetary contributions should be made out to the “Outer Banks Relief Foundation” with “OBX Food Drive” in the memo.

The Beach Food Pantry needs many items, including:

• Canned fruits (packed in 100% juice)
• Canned veggies (canned tomatoes and other more unique sides)
• Spaghetti sauce
• “Complete” or “Just add water” pancake mix
• Pop tarts
• Fruit and grain bars
• Grits
• Cereal
• Instant oatmeal
• Sun butter
• Crunchy peanut butter
• Feminine hygiene products
• Toothbrushes for all ages
• Toothpaste for all ages
• Soap bars
• Laundry detergent
• Deodorant
• Shampoo
• Sunscreen
• Dog waste bags
• Cat litter
• Check made payable to the Beach Food Pantry/gift card (must be dropped off at OBAR)
• Volunteer time

In 2020, OBAR raised $5,000 in cash donations and the equivalent of 1,161 meals in non-perishable items for local food pantries at their annual charity bowling tournament through the generosity of REALTOR^® members.

OBAR President Doug Brindley of Brindley Beach Vacation & Sales said “I would love to exceed what we did in 2020. With affordable housing at a minimum, there are so many residents in dire need of help, and this food drive will hopefully go a long way in accomplishing that.”

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