ABOUT US
OUR STORY
Founded in 1982 by Betty Anne Ford and Nancy Newell, Loaves and Fishes began as a summer program for 12 children in Raleigh’s Halifax Court community. What started as a reading enrichment program grew into a year-round comprehensive support system.
When our original students moved beyond 2nd grade, we saw their need for continued support. We expanded to serve students PreK-12, adding mentorship programs at every stage. Today, as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit celebrating over 40 years of service, we continue to walk alongside students and families from kindergarten through high school graduation and beyond.
OUR MISSION
We Empower Under-Resourced K-12 Youth for Life Opportunities.
We accomplish this through out-of-school programming using a long-term, relationally-based, holistic approach to development that involves enrichment of the mind, body, and spirit. We strategically collaborate with schools, non-profits, and other community organizations to provide critical support to the youth and families we serve. Loaves and Fishes currently serves up to 40 pre-kindergarten through 12th-grade students in a comprehensive after-school program Monday-Thursday located at The New Hope Collaborative (St. Mark’s Church) on N. New Hope Rd. in Raleigh, NC.
OUR APPROACH
We believe lasting change happens through relationships. Our students don’t just visit us after school—they become part of the Loaves and Fishes family. Through daily programming, mentorship, and family support, we provide the consistent, caring presence young people need to thrive.