Lifestyle
Montgomery County Food Bank Continues to Meet Needs of Community
MONTGOMERY COUNTY, TX, – Montgomery County Food Bank began their COVID-19 response on March 12, 2020 in uncharted territory brought on by a global pandemic. Since that day, the Montgomery County Food Bank has distributed over 3.5 million meals to neighbors in need, a 163% increase in comparison to 2019. There is still concern as the demand becomes more critical each day.
People affected by workplace and summer school closures, people still afraid to venture out of their homes, our neighbors experiencing reduced hours at work – are all now unsure of their next meal. Feeding America estimates a 40% increase in food insecurity in Montgomery County, TX due to the economic impact of COVID-19.
The organization has met the need through its diverse network of food pantries and meal sites. They have also added an additional 66 mobile food distributions with various community partners and nonprofit organizations across all of Montgomery County. This could not have been achieved without the help of the National Guard and the food bank’s committed volunteers who logged more 11,736 volunteer hours.
Juan, a recipient, shared with the Montgomery County Food Bank, “I’m not sure what we would do without the food we get here. This helps me feed my kids. I hope I am able to go back to work soon to help my family more. Thank you Montgomery County Food Bank for helping us.”
Kelly Holmes, Board Chairman of Montgomery County Food Bank, said, “We have had an outpouring of support from many community partners, organizations and volunteers from not only Montgomery County but all over the state of Texas. It has been heartwarming to witness our community coming together. As we continue to navigate the changing landscape of this pandemic, we are innovating our processes to fight hunger while ensuring safety. We thank all who support the Montgomery County Food Bank in our efforts to feed the tens of thousands of our citizens who rely on us for nourishment.”
How can you help?
To ensure the highest food safety standards for the community, The Montgomery County Food Bank is not encouraging community food drives. However, Montgomery County Food Bank does invite you to help address the growing need by participating in its Virtual Food Drive at www.mcfoodbank.org/virtual-food-drive. Each donation helps the organization tremendously and any amount helps feed someone in need. Remember: one dollar equals five meals.
For volunteer services, the Montgomery County Food Bank is enforcing strict safety guidelines and are limiting their volunteer numbers. To apply to be a part of those limited shifts, please visit www.mcfoodbank.org.
The Montgomery County Food Bank’s mission is to unite the community to fight hunger. Last year the organization was able to provide over 11 million nutritional meals through its vast network of over 70 partner pantries, local school districts, and community partners. MCFB works in partnership with retailers and wholesalers to provide a solution for food waste by rescuing food that would otherwise go to the landfill. As a part of its green initiatives program, MCFB operates an onsite Produce Rescue Center that allows it to distribute fresh fruits and vegetables which emphasizes the importance of sustainability and promotes healthy food choices. MCFB’s vision of a community where everyone has access to sufficient, nutritious food is possible through the support of volunteers and community and corporate partners.
The Montgomery County Food Bank is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a four-star rating from Charity Navigator, member of the Texas Food Bank Network, a partner with the Houston Food Bank, and a certified member of Feeding America. For more information, visit www.mcfoodbank.org.
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