Christopher Radaker-James New NERA Director in Ponca City

The New Emergency Resource Agency (NERA) can trace its heritage back over 103 years of service to Northcentral Oklahoma. The NERA Board is excited to continue its mission of “Fighting Hunger ~ Feeding Hope” by growing services and customer relations. We are proud to announce the hiring of our new Director, Christopher Radaker-James. If that name sounds familiar, you will likely recognize him from his work at the Poncan Theatre since 2019. 

Christopher is no stranger to Northern Oklahoma. Before moving to Ponca City, he spent 7 years of his childhood in Morrison and two years studying in Tonkawa, Oklahoma. His grandfather, Collins James, was a proud Ponca City resident most of his life. Grandmother, Francie, is also grateful to call Kay County her home.

Christopher and his wife, Kyla, have been foster parents in Ponca City since 2020. They have welcomed 11 children into their home and currently house a set of two siblings. They love to hammock at local recreation areas and travel to National Parks.

Christopher is excited about this new opportunity. He comes to NERA with 12 years of customer service experience and 4 years of nonprofit leadership. Christopher has also completed nonprofit leadership training, grant writing classes, and the Ponca City Chamber Leadership program.

Christopher’s goal is to enhance NERA’s impact and accessibility through automation, customer service, and marketing. “It is a cause worth fighting for,” Christopher says, “Not only is NERA our local food bank, they also provide rental and utility assistance as funds are available. Everyone needs help sometimes, and there is no shame in making sure you and your family have shelter and food. NERA is honored to provide the hand-up our community deserves.”

The New Emergency Resource Agency is affiliated with the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma. NERA serves over 100 families per week thanks to generous donors and volunteers.

Donations are accepted online at www.neraok.org, through NERA’s Facebook page or by mailing it to NERA directly at 112 S. 1st St. Ponca City, OK 74601. You may also contact NERA by phone at 580-765-5372. The nonprofit organization serves the following zip codes: 74601, 74604, 74641, 74653, 74631, 74632, 74647, 74644, 74651, 74633, 74652.