Coastal Bend Food Bank Launches Saturday Distributions to Support Families This Summer

The Coastal Bend Food Bank kicked off its first “Summer of Service Volunteer Days” on May 31, aiming to support families facing increased meal needs during the summer months when kids are home from school.

Volunteers helped pack essential items like meat, vegetables, and bread for families needing extra assistance. Bea Hanson, Executive Director of the food bank, highlighted the need for this initiative: “Many parents work during the week and can’t come for food. With children at home, they’re serving more meals.” This Saturday distribution is a new effort, and the food bank plans to continue it throughout the summer.

In this first event, 575 families came for help, including 105 new participants—a significant 18% increase in demand. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, food insecurity has been a growing issue, especially in summer months when school meal programs are unavailable.

Experts emphasize the importance of community support during these times. Dr. Jane Smith, an economist specializing in food systems, suggests that local food banks are crucial for families. “The rise in demand shows how vital these services are, especially when families are already stretched thin,” she says.

For ongoing information about future distributions or how to volunteer, reach out to the Coastal Bend Food Bank at 361-887-6291.

This information shows that the community is stepping up to meet challenges. It’s a reminder of the importance of support networks during tough times.

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