As 2020 progressed, we could not have imagined what the next day would bring. We started the year doing what we do best–serving our neighbors with nutritious staples. The majority of our clients were the working poor, working two to three jobs to try and pay the rent, child care, transportation, school supplies and other necessities.
Once COVID hit, many of those 2nd jobs went away and many more Houstonians lost their stable jobs completely. The need increased, processes had to be adapted for safety, many volunteers were unable to help, and non-perishable food items became difficult to source. Wow. I’m exhausted just remembering!
The next day? New volunteers stepped up, donations of wipes and cleaning supplies arrived, masks were sewn, food drives were held, and monetary donations arrived from all over the country–all to make sure we were able to continue doing what we do best: serving our neighbors nutritious food.
Through continued partnerships with the Houston Food Bank, Second Servings of Houston and Fruit Share Houston as well as regular donations from Aldi, Panera Bread, Kroger, the Kolache Shoppe in the Heights, St. Mark’s Methodist Church Garden and community members throughout Houston, we provide canned goods, bread, meat, and more to up to 160 families each week.
The projected 2020 numbers clearly tell the amazing story:
- 9,200 volunteer hours worked
- 6,350 families and 24,442 individuals served
- 445,000 pounds of food distributed
Thank you for your support this year and throughout the 11 years we’ve been in operation. Your time, talents, treasure and thoughts bring us strength and lift us up each day to serve others with joy and patience.
We look forward to 2021 knowing that while much is still uncertain, we can count on you to be there when and where needed, ready to do your part!
Terri Dougherty
Executive Director
832-378-5444
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