Texas Health HEB food drive donations stay in northeast Tarrant County

Sometimes, when new clients come to the food pantry at the Community Enrichment Center (CEC) for the first time, they’re in a state of shock. Many are fleeing from an abusive partner or struggling to get on their feet after being homeless. Some have just lost a job. Often, clients are disabled or battling a medical condition that prevents them from working.

Every Thursday night, I am privileged to be a part of an organization like the CEC that helps people get back on their feet. Each year, the food pantry serves more than 10,000 individuals, providing 800,000 pounds of food to residents in northeast Tarrant County. Last year, we saw more than a 15 percent increase in people coming for assistance.

The summer months are the hardest. Sometimes, the shelves in the warehouse start looking awfully lean. Children are on their summer break, so kids aren’t getting free or reduced breakfast and lunches through their schools. Unlike the winter holiday season, when we’re often reminded to give back to those in need, it’s easy to get preoccupied with vacation plans and camps during the summer months.

And, the CEC staff hand out more than food. Sometimes it’s as simple as a smile and a hug and a word of encouragement. Often, families are referred to other CEC programs, which help provide the skills participants need to land a better paying job and become financially stable. Programs include:
• Literacy for Life classes, where they improve their reading and writing skills and prepare for the GED exam
• Job Club, where participants learn interview skills, search for open positions and create a resume

Here’s where you come in!

Texas Health Resources is holding its annual Food Drive June 7-18, and Texas Health HEB’s efforts all support the CEC food pantry. Employees can give online through www.texashealth.org/texashealthgives. Of course another option is to bring in food items which all go directly back to help our neighbors.

This year, Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Hurst-Euless-Bedford’s Food Drive chair, Jana McKinney, has organized two new fundraising events:
• Doctor Jail & Bail, June 9 from noon to 2 pm in the Private Dining Room
• Texas Health HEB Talent Show, June 18, noon to 2 pm in West I & II
Stay tuned for more details! If you want to show off your hidden talents at the talent show, contact Jana McKinney for more info at 817-848-4086.

“I got a job yesterday! This will be my last time coming to get food!” Those are some of my favorite words to hear from a client. Many are so thankful they return as volunteers to give back to the organization that helped them get a fresh start.

Lisa Starnes, MBA, APR
Business Development Specialist
Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Hurst-Euless-Bedford