I didn’t set out to start A Needy Wilmington. It just happened

May 12, 2025

Dear Community,

I didn’t set out to start A Needy Wilmington. It just happened because I saw something I couldn’t ignore. Too many people in our community were struggling, especially families with kids, and it didn’t sit right with me to just watch it happen. I didn’t have some big plan I just knew I had to do something.

I was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York. Over the years, I moved around a lot Lynwood, South Gate, Huntington Park, Downey, Bellflower and eventually, I found my way to Wilmington.

This is the place that finally felt like home. And once I was here, I saw the need up close. I saw kids going without. I saw parents trying to make ends meet and still coming up short. I couldn’t just look away from that.

That’s where this work comes from. It’s not about charity it’s about community. It’s about showing up for people when they need it, without judgment. We try to help however we can, whether it’s covering rent for the month, keeping the lights on, or making sure there’s food on the table.

I don’t take a paycheck from this. Not because I don’t need one I do but I believe in putting everything we get toward helping people directly. Every donation we receive goes to someone who really needs it. That’s the promise I’ve made.

This isn’t easy work, but it’s worth it. I’m grateful to everyone who’s been part of it whether you’ve given, volunteered, or just taken time to learn what we’re about. It all matters.

Thanks for caring about this city and the people in it. We’ve still got work to do, but we’re not doing it alone.

With respect and gratitude,

Tony Fernandez

Founder, A Needy Wilmington