Dec. 19—The West Texas Food Bank is facing an overwhelming surge in demand as inflation continues to rise and grocery prices remain unaffordable for too many families in our community. Long lines are becoming the norm at distribution sites, with families, seniors, and children relying on the Food Bank more than ever before.
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,” Libby Stephens, CEO at the West Texas Food Bank, said in a news release. “But for the families we serve, it’s a time of stress and uncertainty. Parents are wondering how they’ll put food on the table, let alone make it special for their loved ones.”
Thanks to a generous matching campaign from the Abell-Hanger Foundation, the Food Bank is able to address part of this need — but the crisis is far from over. Every week, the West Texas Food Bank is distributing thousands of pounds of food, and still, it’s not enough to keep up with the growing demand.
“The stories we hear every day are heartbreaking,” Stephens continued. “Mothers are skipping meals so their children can eat, seniors are rationing food because they can’t afford groceries after paying for medication, and working families are falling through the cracks. We need the community’s help now more than ever to make sure no one in West Texas goes hungry, especially during the holidays.”
The rising cost of living has left many families in impossible situations, forcing them to make tough choices. Meanwhile, the Food Bank is struggling to meet this growing need while facing its own challenges of rising costs for food, fuel, and operations.
“Inflation and grocery prices are impacting everyone, but for the families we serve, the effect is devastating. People who never thought they’d need help are now in our lines. The Abell-Hanger Foundation’s support gives us hope, but we can’t do this alone. We need everyone in West Texas to help out, especially as we head into the holiday season,” said Stephens.
How you can help:
— Donate Funds: Every dollar counts. With just $5, we can provide up to 10 meals to families in need. Visit www.wtxfoodbank.org to make a secure online donation.
— Donate food: Drop off non-perishable items at any food bank locations. Staples like canned vegetables, rice, beans, and peanut butter are always in demand.
— Volunteer your time: Volunteers are the heart of the food bank’s mission. Whether it’s packing boxes or distributing food, your time makes a difference.
The West Texas Food Bank is also calling on the community to make this holiday season brighter for families in need. Special holiday food drives, monetary donations, and volunteering are ways you can help ensure every family has a meal to gather around.
For more information on how you can help, please visit www.wtxfoodbank.org. Together, we can ensure no one in West Texas goes hungry this holiday season and beyond.