The Tarrant Area Food Bank is on a mission to help the community beyond just providing food. They’re set to break ground on a new Community Resource Center at their Fort Worth headquarters later this month. This $3.5 million project will upgrade part of their Agricultural Hub building.
The center aims to offer various services to local residents, including childcare, health screenings, and workforce development. Julie Butner, the food bank’s president and CEO, explained that many people struggle with food insecurity due to job loss or health issues. She believes addressing these root causes is essential.
In the past, the food bank focused mainly on food distribution. However, a shift in community needs became clear as more residents started seeking assistance. The area around the food bank is changing, too, with more low-income families moving in.
In 2025, the food bank launched a community market with support from supermarket chain H-E-B, which revealed the high demand for such services. Even without promotional efforts, the market saw a steady influx of visitors.
What can residents expect from the new Community Resource Center? Here’s a quick look:
- A community market
- Affordable childcare services
- Health screenings
- Workforce development help
- Support for applying for SNAP, WIC, and TANF
Butner emphasizes that the food bank is evolving. As food insecurity remains a significant issue, they aim to be a hub for broader community needs. Many food banks across the country are starting to adopt this model. According to a recent study, nearly 1 in 10 Americans still face food insecurity, highlighting the ongoing challenges.
In short, the Tarrant Area Food Bank is redefining its role in the community. It’s more than just a food provider now; it seeks to tackle various challenges faced by their neighbors.
For further insights on food insecurity, you can refer to the USDA’s Economic Research Service.
