Frequently Asked Questions

Where is AOM located?

AOM is located in the old Riverview School at 11719 Hwy 88W, Creston, NC, the end opposite of the convenience center.

Look for the signs in the picture above!

What are our main programs?

We have four programs:

Mobile Meals: We send out about 70 mobile meals per day, every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday for a total of 830 meals per month. We have five delivery routes that cover the west and northwest parts of Ashe County. We also have an additional 20 meals available in the kitchen each day for those who wish to pick up their meals vice have them delivered. All of these meals are absolutely free to anyone who wants them, no questions asked. We can always use more drivers to deliver mobile meals. Ideally, we have at least one or two “extra” volunteer drivers per route to step in when one of our regular drivers is unable to deliver. Call 336-385-1314 if you are interested.

Food Pantry: On average, our on-site pantry provides nutritious groceries to about 445 individuals per month. Individuals are allowed to pick-up food only once per month, but the pantry is open every Tuesday through Thursday to ensure all in need can pick up their food when convenient. Picking up food from other pantries in the county does not disqualify clients from picking up from other pantries in the same month. We do ask our clients a few questions about the number of members in their household and their income due to requirements of some government food assistance programs. Prospective clients don’t need to bring any documents (driver’s license, pay-stub, tax forms, etc.) with them to apply for food distribution. The pantry is open Tuesday through Thursday, 9 am to 2 pm. In emergency situations, the pantry will distribute food after hours or on weekends by prospective clients calling 336-385-1314 or 336-385-6804.

School Backpacks: AOM is linked to our neighboring Blue Ridge Elementary School and Ashe County High School to provide nutritious backpacks of food to approximately 90 children and teens to take home every weekend. We also provide 12 backpacks to homeschool families in our community. Combined, this adds up to 380 backpacks full of food per month to feed school aged children and their families during the weekends.

Fish Fry: While this is our main fund raiser, it also provides the largest opportunity for the residents of Ashe County to gather and socialize on the western side of the county. The fish fry is held on every 1st and 3rd Friday of each month, 4-7pm.

Where does the food come from?

A large percentage of our food comes from Second Harvest Food Bank in Winston-Salem through various state and federal food assistance programs as well as food donations they have received from food suppliers, local grocery stores and food drives. Occasionally, AOM receives donations from local grocery stores, farmers, and partnership organizations, and purchases food from wholesale suppliers, local stores, and farms to fill gaps, particularly in produce and other fresh food items. One misconception is that food obtained from Second Harvest Food Bank is free. On the contrary, partner organizations of Second Harvest must share their expenses such as transportation, cold storage, utilities, inventory management and pest control.

Where does the money come from?

As mentioned about, we have a twice per month fish fry that is our major fundraiser. Other than that, we rely heavily on donations. Once we find a grant writer, we plan to submit grant applications that will allow us to increase our ability to serve even more of the citizens of Ashe County.

What expenses does AOM have?

Besides food that was already mentioned, we have rent, utilities, phone and internet, maintenance and fuel for delivery truck, several types of insurance, kitchen equipment purchases and maintenance, office equipment and supplies, advertising, paper plates and plastic wear, postage, pest control, janitorial service, and food purchases to support the twice per month Friday Fish Fry, our major fundraiser. Notice one area not mentioned was employee salaries. We have no employees. Our organization is 100% staffed by volunteers.

How many volunteers are needed to run AOM and what do they do?

We currently have 80 volunteer positions that must be filled for us successfully accomplish our purpose of ensuring the people of the western side of Ashe County have sufficient, nutritious food. Currently, we have fewer volunteers than needed so some of our volunteers actually fill more than one position during the month. For instance, one volunteer may work in the pantry during the week and then volunteer during the twice monthly fish fry. If you have a desire to volunteer, we will find the right fit for you and for us. Follow the link below for additional information on volunteering. (Click to Visit the Volunteer Opportunities Page)

Driving for Mobile Meals

What will I be doing as a driver?

Being a driver involves picking up meals from the AOM kitchen located in the Riverview Community Center and delivering them along a pre-determined route directly to the homes of several seniors. On your first delivery, an experienced driver will take you along pointing out landmarks and introducing you to your clients. We also provide detailed direction sheets that include pictures of each client’s home so even a first-time driver can find their way. Once you’ve completed deliveries, you return the delivery crates and provide feedback to our kitchen staff.

How often will I be expected to drive?

We can set up a volunteer schedule that works within your constraints. Whether that be once a week, once a month or as needed, just mention your preferences when you connect with our coordinator. Meals go out Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays between 9:30-10:00 am, and deliveries generally take approximately 1 to 1 ½ hours.

Will I always deliver to the same clients?

Typically, recurring volunteers can sign up for a set schedule and delivery route, allowing you to visit the same seniors on a regular basis. However, there is often a need to fill in open volunteer slots or to volunteer on different schedules which could result in serving different clients on different days.

Can I reschedule when something comes up?

Schedules are typically flexible with sufficient notice. You’ll be able to work directly with other drivers and our route coordinator to manage your volunteer schedule.