West Texas Food Bank Expands to Help Area Seniors

For years, I've believed that no one in West Texas should have to wonder where their next meal is coming from.

That belief is one reason I once spent 48 hours frozen inside a block of ice during a fundraiser to help fight hunger in our community. The message was simple: "Let's Put A Freeze On Hunger." Thanks to the generosity of Abilene and the Big Country, more than $20,000 was raised along with two 18-wheelers full of food donations.

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What I learned from that experience is that West Texans care deeply about their neighbors. That's why I was excited to learn that the Food Bank of West Central Texas is launching a new monthly Senior Resource Day and Drive-Thru Food Pantry.

Helping Seniors Across West Central Texas

Beginning on the first Thursday of every month, adults ages 55 and older can visit  the  Food Bank of West Central Texas at 5505 North First Street in Abilene between 9:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. to receive food assistance and learn about programs that may improve their quality of life.

The Food Bank has long been one of the most important organizations in our region. Not only do they help feed families facing difficult times, but they also support churches, community organizations, and programs that serve our most vulnerable neighbors.

Hunger Often Hides In Plain Sight

One group that often goes unnoticed is our senior population.

Many older adults live on fixed incomes and may struggle to keep up with rising grocery, medical, and housing costs. Too often, pride or uncertainty prevents them from asking for help.

That's what makes programs like this so important.

In addition to food assistance, participants can learn about SNAP benefits, the Texas Simplified Application Project, Medicare Savings Programs, Medicaid assistance, and other resources available throughout the Big Country.

A Community That Takes Care Of Its Own

I've always believed one of the greatest strengths of Abilene and West Texas is the way we take care of each other.

The Food Bank of West Central Texas serves 13 counties and works every day to make sure our neighbors don't have to face hunger alone. If you know a senior who could benefit from these services, please share this information with them.

Sometimes helping someone is as simple as letting them know where help can be found.

For more information, visit FeedTexans.org or call 325-695-6311.

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