Across Northwest North Carolina, neighbors are working hard to care for their families — yet far too many are still facing impossible choices. This season, we’re lifting up the story of Bernardine “Bernie” Rea, a longtime friend of Second Harvest whose life reflects what community truly looks like.

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As the daughter of a Coast Guard admiral, Bernie spent her childhood moving from place to place, never staying long enough to put down roots. What she longed for most was connection — something steady, something she could nurture and belong to. She found that here, in our community. 

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For 40 years, Bernie Rea taught second graders how to be good friends — with gentleness, humor, and lots of stickers. Today, Bernie gives quietly and consistently, pouring her heart into ensuring that all neighbors can access the food they need to thrive.

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Bernie Rea shows up because she believes — deeply — that everyone deserves to eat, and that when we care for one another, we all grow stronger.

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Today, we’re inviting you to join her.

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Your Gift Is Matched Dollar-for-Dollar

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Right now, generous friends of Second Harvest are matching every gift — $1 for $1, doubling the impact of your generosity.

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When you give in the spirit of Bernie’s example, your compassion:

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• Nourishes families 

• Helps seniors stretch fixed incomes

• Supports kids and teens with the nutrition they need to learn and thrive

• Sustains pantries and programs across our 18-county region

• Powers job training opportunities that strengthen long-term stability

This is what it means to be like Bernie: steady, caring, community-minded.