As the years progressed, the Center developed more services. The center formed a literacy program, seeking to provide those in need an avenue for increased self-sufficiency; brought Alcoholics Anonymous to the area to combat the rising prevalence of substance abuse; and established a home-ownership program based on the national model of Habitat for Humanity.
In 2005, the Center leased the old Lumberton Ford building at 600 W 5th Street to house the organization’s growing Home Store. The entire complex was subsequently donated to the center in 2006. The Center’s programs continued to grow and change, the Home Store providing affordable, quality clothing; the food pantry providing food to any Robeson County resident regardless of race, ethnicity, or income; home repair assistance; air cooling devices for the elderly; and an Ensure program to provide nutrition to the sick.
After Hurricanes Matthew and Florence, the center began adjusting to the new realities of Robeson County. The center now runs Robeson’s largest food pantry, sells affordable goods at the Home Store, assists with utility and rent payments, provides adult/baby diapers for those in any situation, and is constantly seeking new ways to push back against poverty and fight inequality in Robeson County.