Thanksgiving is a time when many of us come together to share a special meal with family and friends in celebration of the season. However, it is also important to remember that there are many who do not have this connection or who need assistance. In our community, there are several local resources available to help those less fortunate during the holiday season – many of which rely on the support of community volunteers and donations. In this week’s article, I would like to share with you some information about these community programs, as well as outline how you can join me in helping to ensure that all residents of District 32 have a safe and happy holiday season.
One way to help this season is by supporting a local organization dedicated to helping those living with hunger or food insecurity in the Coastal Bend. One of these organizations is the Coastal Bend Food Bank (CBFB), which helps to reduce hunger throughout eleven counties in South Texas by collaborating with various nonprofits, food pantries, churches, and nutrition programs across South Texas. To service this large region CBFB relies on food donations from wholesalers, manufacturers, and retailers, but also relies on the support of the community as a whole. Organizations or individuals can help ensure the CBFB has the resources it needs is by hosting or sponsoring a food drive. To learn more about sponsoring a food drive, please visit the Coastal Bend Food Bank.
There are many ways that you can help feed the hungry, not just this Holiday Season, but year-round. Food banks are always in need of non-perishable foods such as: meals in a can (stew, chili, soup), tuna / canned meat, peanut butter, canned foods with pop-top lids, low sugar cereals, 100% fruit juices in single serving boxes, canned fruit packed in juice, and canned vegetables (low salt). The CBFB is also always looking for volunteers. Volunteers are needed Monday-Friday from 9 AM-4 PM to help inspect, sort, and box donated food products at their warehouse located at 826 Krill Street, Corpus Christi, TX.
During this year’s holiday season, I hope you will join me in finding ways to help those less fortunate than us have a safe and happy Thanksgiving. No matter how you choose to help, it is important to remember that whether it is through donating food or other items, giving financially or volunteering your time, even the smallest contribution can make a large impact to someone in need.
If you have questions regarding any of the information mentioned in this week’s article, please do not hesitate to call my Capitol or District Office. Please always feel free to contact my office if you have any questions or issues regarding a Texas state agency, or if you would like to contact my office regarding constituent services. My offices are available at any time to assist with questions, concerns, or comments (Capitol Office, 512-463-0672; District Office, 361-949-4603).
– State Representative Todd Hunter, District 32
Rep. Hunter represents Aransas County and part of Nueces County. He can be contacted at todd.hunter@house.texas.gov or at 512-463-0672.