WAYNE COUNTY, NC – United Way of Wayne County will host its annual Fill the Theatre Food Drive next month at the Paramount Theatre, aiming to help address ongoing food insecurity across the community.
Rising costs of food and housing continue to place financial strain on households throughout Wayne County, increasing demand for food assistance and essential household items. Local food pantries and nonprofit organizations work year-round to support individuals and families in need, and United Way officials say the event is designed to strengthen those efforts.
“As an agency, we’re grateful to serve as another layer of support for our local pantries and the community,” said Sherry Archibald, executive director of United Way of Wayne County. “Fill the Theatre is one way we can help strengthen those efforts and ensure our partners have the resources they need to continue serving residents.”
The two-day food drive will take place Monday and Tuesday, Feb. 16–17, 2026, at the Paramount Theatre. Donation hours are noon to 5 p.m. on Monday and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Tuesday. Individuals, businesses, and civic groups are encouraged to drop off donations during the event.
Donations may also be made in advance at several locations, including TA Loving, the Wayne County Courthouse Atrium, TownePlace Suites Hotel, Habitat ReStore, and United Way of Wayne County.
United Way’s goal is to fill all 500 seats inside the Paramount Theatre with donated items. Donors may reserve one or more seats in the name of their business, organization, or group. Monetary donations are also accepted for those unable to provide physical items, with all funds used to purchase additional supplies for local partner agencies. Checks should be made payable to United Way of Wayne County.
Requested donation items include non-perishable canned goods, paper products, toiletries, baby items such as diapers and formula, menstrual products, and new, unused socks and underwear. A complete list of requested items and additional event details are available at www.unitedwayne.org/filltheatre.
Volunteers are also needed to assist with receiving and organizing donations throughout the event. Those interested may register online or contact Pilar Parks at (919) 735-3591 or pilar@unitedwayne.org.
