Diana Lopez, Author at North Carolina Health News

Sixteen peope sit around long tables in a church room with a cross on the wall. They are being trained and getting certification in a Faith in Mental Health program started by former state Rep. Frank Sossamon.

New program trains churches, congregants to assist with mental health needs

by Diana Lopez August 14, 2026August 13, 2026

By Diana Lopez Key Takeaways: Mental health is a sensitive and often stigmatized subject in many North Carolina communities that can create challenges for people who might need help but are reluctant to seek it out. Frank Sossamon knows this firsthand from his work as a pastor of Hermon Community Church in Henderson and a […]

Squash displaye on a Carrboro Farmers Market table with a neon green sign that says "Ugly Duckling $2.00/lb. 'Our beauty is within'." The drought this year has had a negative impact on farmers' produce,having an impact on their bottom line and making it more challenging for hunger relief organizations, many in food deserts.

Environmental Health

North Carolina’s drought hammers farmers, worsens food insecurity

by Diana Lopez July 30, 2026July 30, 2026

A toddler wearing a yellow princess dress and yellow shoes is sitting in a car seat looking out the passenger side window. NC Lawmakers are considering changes to the Child Passenger Restraint Systems Law that relies more on height.

Children's Health

NC lawmakers consider changes to vehicle child seat laws

by Diana Lopez July 2, 2026July 1, 2026

Tarboro resident Kelly Spivey founded Kelly's Community Pantry eight years ago to help people with food insecurity. With SNAP cuts and school children out for summer vacation she likes to keep the five shelf locker on her property well stocked with free provisions

Children's Health

When school’s out, who will feed the kids?

by Diana Lopez June 22, 2026June 26, 2026