On Tuesday morning, long lines of cars snaked around the Axis Road on SPID as families eagerly awaited one of the most significant holiday food distributions hosted by the Coastal Bend Food Bank. Held at their new location on Bear Lane, the event aimed to bring relief and joy to hundreds of families facing financial hardships during the holiday season.
A Mission Rooted in Holiday Spirit
The Coastal Bend Food Bank’s executive director, Bea Hanson, highlighted the event’s significance and emphasized its alignment with its mission.
“The need is immense,” Hanson remarked, noting that some families began parking outside the distribution site as early as Monday night. “We are excited because this is our mission, and it’s also the spirit of the holidays,” she added.
For many families, the event was more than just a food distribution—it was a beacon of hope. One of the many attendees, Herb Sharum, shared how the assistance would make a significant difference for his family this Thanksgiving.
“It’s going to help with Thanksgiving,” said Sharum, explaining that his family has faced financial struggles this year after his wife could not work. “We’ve been living off my Social Security check.”
A Lifeline for Families Facing Inflation
Another recipient, Manuel Cardenas, expressed gratitude for the food assistance, explaining how it would help his family stretch their budget during an expensive time of year.
“Well, we would probably be cutting back on a lot of the things, the basic items, you know, that we enjoy at this time of year,” Cardenas said.
Since the beginning of November, the Coastal Bend Food Bank has distributed over 8,000 turkeys across the 11 counties it serves. Rising food prices and inflation have significantly increased demand, with many local households relying on the food bank for support.
Community Effort Fuels Holiday Assistance
This monumental effort, made possible by the unwavering support of volunteers, local businesses, and generous community donations, is a testament to the power of unity in our community. Their contributions enable the Coastal Bend Food Bank to continue assisting families during the holiday season.
The organization plans to host additional food distributions in the coming weeks to ensure that families throughout the Coastal Bend can enjoy warm, festive meals despite economic challenges.
A Season of Giving and Gratitude
The Coastal Bend Food Bank’s holiday food distribution is a testament to the power of community and compassion. For families like Sharum’s and Cardenas’s, this event is not just about food—it’s about reassurance that they are not alone in their struggles.
As the holidays approach, the Coastal Bend Food Bank remains committed to feeding hope and nourishing needy families. Your continued support is crucial in our mission to ensure that no family goes hungry during this festive season.