AUSTIN, Texas -- The Central Texas Food Bank’s mobile food pantry traveled to a North Austin neighborhood Monday morning in an effort to increase access to healthful food options this holiday season and beyond. In the parking lot of The For the City Center on St. John’s Avenue, nearly 40 volunteers and other staff members distributed fresh foods and other grocery items to hungry Austinites.
- Mobile food pantry bringing healthful food to those in need
- Many have minimal access to food
- Volunteers needed
“During the holidays season, it’s very important to be able to feed a variety of folks that don’t necessarily have access to foods this time of year,” said Director of Operations Jeff Gonzales. “We take a look at areas that have minimal access to food in those areas, minimal grocers that are available.”
He said there are mobile pantry distributions at least three times a day, six day days week across the 21 counties the organization serves. On average, these distributions are able to feed about 300 households.
Gloria Kerr was among the dozens of people waiting in line and doing so on an empty stomach. The 50-year-old is living with fibromyalgia and high blood pressure, which affects her ability to work. Kerr has also experienced homelessness, and just recently started living with her sister.
“I’m just not used to being in this situation, it’s not normal to me, so it causes a lot of stress,” she said.
On top of that, it has been difficult for Kerr to buy groceries.
“The ability to sufficiently provide for yourself, as far as food and sustainability, it’s very hard to acquire because of the prices. I’m not alone, I’ve many people in my situation. It’s very demanding and very expensive,” she said.
Volunteers distribute food with the aid of the Central Texas Food Bank's mobile fod pantry in Austin, Texas.
Kerr called the mobile food pantry distribution a “blessing,” because it will also allow her family to prepare a traditional Thanksgiving dinner.
“There is help out there, we just have to find it. Sometimes we have to dig through all kind of murk in waters, it’s there and we can find it. Keep on praying, keep hope, and faith alive. I think we’re all going to be alright,” she said.
For more information about the mobile food pantry and how to volunteer, click here.
