Johnston County Environmental Health to Hold Free Food Safety Training for Community Organizations and Nonprofits

July 16, 2025

For Immediate Release:

Smithfield, N.C.- Johnston County Environmental Health, a division of Johnston County Public Health, invites local nonprofits and community organizations to attend a free food safety training class on Thursday, July 24, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Johnston County Land Use Center, 309 East Market Street in Smithfield.

This training is designed for any group that prepares and serves food to the public or its members. Examples include religious organizations (for meals around services, homecomings, vacation bible schools, or disaster relief efforts), civic clubs (such as Lions or Rotary), food pantries, soup kitchens, and meal delivery programs for seniors or shut-ins. This training is not intended for permitted food establishments.

Whether your organization serves food at fundraisers, community events, festivals, or in response to emergencies and natural disasters, this class will help ensure that meals are prepared safely. Participants will receive practical training materials and guidance, as well as hands-on instruction with equipment, to help them confidently meet food safety requirements and protect the health of those they serve.

“Our goal is to support local groups in protecting the health of our community,” said Johnston County Environmental Health Director Todd Ramsey. “We want every organization to feel prepared to safely share meals, whether they’re feeding neighbors during a festival or helping after a storm.”

There is no cost to attend, and all interested groups are encouraged to participate. Seating is limited, so be sure to register online to reserve your spot. For questions or more information, please contact Johnston County Environmental Health at 919-989-5180.

 

Join us for a free food safety training designed for individuals interested in holding large meal events, such as fundraisers, church meals, or meals after a disaster. 

Registration is required: register online here. 

Thursday, July 24, 2025 from 10 AM to 12 PM. Land Use Center at 309 East Market Street, Smithfield. 


Questions? Call Johnston County Environmental Health at 919-989-5180.

Download Community Meal Food Safety Training page as PDF