The Houston Food Bank: Cash and Volunteers
The Houston Food Bank is at the epicenter of need as Covid19 ravages Greater Houston, layoffs mounting, money drying up, nerves fraying and everyone wanting to know when it will end while some just want to know where the next meal will come from. The Houston Food Bank is meeting the challenge.
They’re getting out 750,000 pounds of food daily. President and CEO Brian Greene says the pandemic need surpasses what was seen when 15% of Houston households were impacted by Hurricane Harvey, and is requiring that they make large purchases to meet needs.Greene says they’re working with a network of partners to provide everything they can. The first stop for people in need is their website HoustonFoodBank.org, and click on the “need help” tab.He says they hope as people start receiving stimulus funds from the government some of the needs will be ameliorated, but remain prepared to serve with help from the local restaurant community. “We are getting a lot of donated produce, which is great, but having to supplement that with purchased products so financial contributions not only to Houston Food Bank but any of the organizations that are stepping up to help the community are greatly appreciated,” he says.
You can donate at their website.
If you are in need of assistance, you can call the Helpline at 832-369-9390. To find a food pantry near you, text FOOD to 855-308-2282.
They are also need volunteers.Greene says they’ve been delivering meals to homebound residents who are quarantined. “But more and more it’s trying to get deliveries to seniors,” he adds, “and we’ve got a lot of volunteers doing that and definitely need more.”All CDC guidelines for distancing and safety are being practiced by volunteers, who are being asked to provide their own face coverings.The Food Bank is rotating through shifts and asks volunteers to find an opening during a time you are available and sign up for opportunities at the warehouse, in the kitchen, or at remote locations throughout the city where food is being distributed.
You can sign up at their website.