Our Story: From Kitchen Cabinet to Community Cornerstone

In 1998, with nothing more than a computer in a kitchen corner and an unwavering faith, C.A.R.E. (Child Abuse Resource and Education) began its mission to address child abuse and neglect in Eastern North Carolina. The vision was simple but powerful: create a resource that could help families and children in communities lacking resources, education, and transportation.

Humble Beginnings

Starting with annual budgets of just $2,000-$4,000, C.A.R.E. began breaking down barriers surrounding topics that weren’t readily discussed in the late 1990s. Through grassroots efforts—from chicken plate sales to parade appearances—the organization slowly built its presence and impact in Halifax, Warren, and Northampton counties.

Growing to Serve

In 2004, a major milestone was reached with the opening of the John 3:16 Center in Littleton. Built at just 27 cents per square foot through the generous support of volunteers and community donations, the Center became a physical testament to the power of community collaboration and faith in action.

Impact Through the Years

From our earliest days to now, our reach has grown exponentially:

• Connected with over 3,787 children through our Christmas Outreach
  Served 1,938 children through Camp J316
• Distributed school supplies to more than 4,118 students
• Assisted 4,642 households through our Emergency Food Pantry
• Provided educational programs to hundreds of parents and community members

Our Mission Today

As a faith-based, interdenominational Christian organization, we remain committed to addressing the impact of poverty and trauma on families with children in our three-county service area. We do this through advocacy, education, empowerment, and community collaboration.

Looking Forward

Our vision remains clear: to build a safe community, free of poverty and trauma, where the Love of Christ is shared, families are supported, children are happy, they can dream, and they are encouraged to live out God’s purpose for their lives.

As we look to the future, we continue to embrace the quote: “God can move mountains, but you better bring your shovel.” Through collaborative efforts like our Roanoke Valley Afterschool Collaborative and various community partnerships, we’re working to create an even greater impact in the years to come.

“This has been a God-led and community-built organization from the beginning, and even as we grow, we’ve continued to keep this in mind.”

– Shannon McAllister, Executive Director