The West Texas Food Bank is facing an overwhelming surge in demand as inflation continues to rise and food prices remain unaffordable for too many families in our community. Long lines at distribution sites are the norm, and families, seniors and children are relying on food banks more than ever.
For many families, the joy of the holidays is overshadowed by the fear of empty plates.
“The holidays should be a time of hope and celebration,” West Texas Food Bank CEO Libby Stevens said in a news release. “But for the families we serve, this is a time of stress and anxiety. Parents are wondering how they will put food on the table, let alone prepare a special meal for their loved one.” I think so.”
Thanks to a generous matching campaign by the Abel Hunger Foundation, food banks are able to meet some of this need, but the crisis is far from over. The West Texas Food Bank distributes thousands of pounds of food each week, but it’s still not enough to meet the growing demand.
“The stories we hear every day are heartbreaking,” Stevens continued. “Mothers are skipping meals to feed their children, elderly people are rationing food because they can’t afford to buy it after paying for medicine, and working families are feeling the pinch. Now more than ever, we need our community’s help to ensure no one goes hungry in West Texas, especially during the holidays.”
The rising cost of living is putting many families in impossible situations and forcing them to make difficult choices. Meanwhile, food banks are struggling to meet this growing need while facing unique challenges of rising food, fuel and operating costs.
“Inflation and food prices are impacting everyone, but for the families we serve, the impact is devastating. People who never thought they would need help. are now in our line. The support of the Abel Hunger Foundation gives us hope, but we can’t do this alone, especially as we head into the holiday season. We need everyone’s help,” Stevens said.
How we can help:
Donate funds: Every dollar counts. For just $5, you can provide up to 10 meals to families in need. Visit www.wtxfoodbank.org to make a secure online donation. Donate food: Bring non-perishable food to a food bank location. Staple foods like canned vegetables, rice, beans, and peanut butter are always in demand. Take the time to volunteer: Volunteering is central to the food bank’s mission. Whether you’re packing boxes or distributing food, time can make a difference.
The West Texas Food Bank is also asking the community to help brighten this holiday season for families in need. Special holiday food drives, monetary donations, and volunteering are ways to help keep all families fed.
For more information on how you can help, please visit www.wtxfoodbank.org. Together, we can make sure no one goes hungry in West Texas this holiday season and beyond.
