We thought 2021 would calm down a little – and it did a bit! We served fewer families than in 2020 (5,900 vs. 6,300), but we still saw a continued increase over 2019 and prior years. This growth shows the growing need in the community as well as the increase in volunteers able to give of their time to serve others.

We were able to return to our “5^th Saturday” Food Fairs, serving in the hottest of July and the coldest of February! Five days after our February Food Fair, we opened again to distribute all we had to those without water and electricity. In December, we partnered again with the Houston Food Bank and Channel 13 as a distribution site for Share Your Holidays 2021. The rest of the year? Our clients knew they would receive non-perishable staples, fresh produce, fresh eggs, and basic toiletries, whenever they visited. With support from Second Servings of Houston, Aldi, Kroger, Panera, Starbucks and the Kolache Shoppe, they also regularly received fresh bread and sweets, frozen meat, prepared meals, and more.

As we move into 2022, we’re looking forward. We hoped throughout 2021 that we would move back inside the Pantry, providing clients the opportunity to do some of their own “shopping.” Unfortunately, the various surges we experienced required us to continue serving outside. We’ve talked with our clients, and many appreciate the convenience of  “curbside” service. We’ll be changing things around, possibly adding a third distribution time, to allow both to occur. Stay posted, and we’ll let you know how you can help!

We are also looking at how we can support our added growth – both with clients and donations. Our footprint is small, but we’re thinking “outside our box” and coming up with ideas! Stay tuned!

We do wish you a restful, healthy, and happy holiday season! Take those big breaths, hug those close to you, and continue to do what you do best – treat everyone with welcome and love. We all need it!

Terri Dougherty
Executive Director, Heights Interfaith Ministries