Summer is often associated with vacations and time off from school, but for many Central Texas families, it also brings an increase in food insecurity.
That’s why the Central Texas Food Bank is ramping up its efforts to provide meals for children and families across the region, and asking the community to lend a hand.
Chief Development Officer Mark Jackson joined We Are Austin to discuss the growing need and how Central Texans can help.
Chief Development Officer Mark Jackson joined We Are Austin to discuss the growing need and how Central Texans can help.
Hunger Reaches Record Levels
The Central Texas Food Bank serves a 21-county region, partnering with more than 250 organizations to help ensure families have access to nutritious food year-round.
“The reality is that food insecurity is at the highest rate it’s ever been in our region,” Jackson said.
Summer can be especially difficult for families as children lose access to free and reduced-price school meals while household expenses continue to climb.
“Kids are out of school, and they’re losing access to those free and reduced-price lunches,” Jackson explained. “There are increased energy costs, childcare costs, all these compounding factors that are putting people at risk of hunger.”
Central Texas Food Bank Calls on Community to Help Meet Record Summer Need
Feeding Kids All Summer
To help fill that gap, the Central Texas Food Bank operates a summer meals program in partnership with more than 80 community sites throughout the Austin area.
This summer alone, the organization expects to provide more than 240,000 meals to children.
“It’s such a fantastic program and so critical,” Jackson said. “But the reality is, even that is still falling short of meeting the need.”
Many meal sites also offer educational and enrichment activities, giving children a safe place to gather while school is out.
Central Texas Food Bank Calls on Community to Help Meet Record Summer Need
Expanding to Meet Demand
As demand continues to grow, the food bank is expanding its reach.
Jackson announced that the organization’s new Waco facility is coming online, helping improve food distribution across its large service area.
“We’re so grateful that the community has invested in us,” he said.
How You Can Help
The Central Texas Food Bank says financial donations remain one of the most effective ways to fight hunger.
Currently, the organization is purchasing approximately $1.3 million worth of food each month, but thanks to its buying power, every donated dollar goes much further.
“We can leverage a dollar and turn it into three meals,” Jackson said.
Many donations are also being matched through generous community partners, allowing supporters to double their impact.
The organization also welcomes volunteers throughout the year to help sort, pack and distribute food.
To donate, volunteer or find food assistance, visit CentralTexasFoodBank.org.
Chief Development Officer Mark Jackson joined We Are Austin to discuss the growing need and how Central Texans can help.