Hundreds line up for food

WILSON (WTVD) -- If anyone needed proof that the economy hasn't completely rebounded, they only had to look at the huge crowd that showed up for free food in Wilson Wednesday.

A slow drizzle didn't discourage more than a thousand from showing up at the Wilson Opportunities Industrialization Center which was giving families bags of food for their Thanksgiving meal.

Before dawn, dozens were already in line on Reid Street East. Organizers said some had been there since 1a.m.

Families got groceries such as turkey, ham, chicken, green beans, corn, canned collards, orange juice, apple juice, and sweet potatoes.

The North Carolina Employment Security Commission says that in September, 11.9 percent of Wilson County was unemployed. That's nearly five thousand people.

People who showed up for the groceries Wednesday say it's been hard.

"Yes, it is. I've been without a job now, for two years," said mother Mary Anne Hooks.

Volunteers say they were happy to help out.

"It's a good feeling. It's sad and it's lonely to see that line out there. It could be you. It could be me. We could be there," said Wilson Opportunities Industrialization Center President Howard Jones.

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