My messages over the last few years have had a common theme – we’re serving more, we need more, and our community continues to step up. We’ve served 50% more clients through October 2023 compared to 2022 (and 78% more than our 2021 numbers!). What an amazing little corner we have here! And you are a key part of it.
 
Recently, we’ve had voter registrars on site, been the recipient of food drives from our member churches, area high schools, and local businesses, and worked with the Houston Food Bank to increase community engagement and source more product. We will again benefit from an effort by our Travis Elementary community to collect, create and deliver the makings of a holiday meal in December. We have groups of volunteers who are looking toward the future – to better manage our growth, to best put our volunteers to work, and ultimately to stay true to our mission of providing nutritious food in a respectful and welcoming environment.
 
When I helped my son find a spot to earn service hours in 2015, I had no idea the depth of the community I was joining when I walked into the little building on Beauchamp. Taking the helm in 2019 was the next step in my journey. Then came the roller coaster of changes for COVID, added partnerships for product donations, and increasing awareness of our little corner and the welcome, respect and care our clients receive. Thank you for lifting me up and stepping up to serve your neighbors in all the ways you do.

These last 5 years have flown, and it’s the right time for someone else to take care of our little corner. I will step down and pass leadership to a new Executive Director as of January 1, 2024. Cheryl Engler is a long-time pantry volunteer and brings so much caring and heart to the role and to this community. Please stop by to say hello and bid her an official welcome! She is excited to serve our clients together with each and every one of you.

I’m excited to see where the next 5 years take the pantry. I know there will be new challenges to meet as well as new opportunities to change and grow. I hope you will be supportive with your time, talent, and treasure, and continue to keep our little corner in your hearts. Thank you for all you have done for me during my time with the Pantry and what I know you will continue to do for the Heights Interfaith Ministries Food Pantry.

Terri Dougherty
Executive Director, Heights Interfaith Ministries