Brazos Valley Food Bank: Steadfast Amidst Challenges
In Bryan, Texas, the Brazos Valley Food Bank faces the tough task of managing with less as government funding shrinks. Despite this, they prioritize trust and transparency with their donors.
Theresa Mangapora, the food bank’s executive director, believes that oversight is vital. “It’s essential for organizations to be checked,” she says. This scrutiny builds confidence among the public, reassuring them that their contributions are well-handled.
The food bank keeps a close watch on its distribution partners. Shannon Avila, the program director, notes, “We verify that partners are legitimate non-profits or churches, and we review their strategies for food storage and distribution.” Robert Martin, who manages agency relationships, adds that their visits ensure quality control. “Our goal is to enhance our partners’ efforts,” he explains.
One impressive fact is that 96% of every donation goes directly to feeding families. Mangapora highlights this efficiency: “Only four cents of every dollar is spent on overhead, ensuring that most funds support our core mission.”
Funding helps the food bank grow. Ebony Knight, the operations director, shares, “We’ve installed more coolers at our facility and with our partners, allowing us to manage more supplies efficiently.”
While their main focus is immediate food aid, initiatives like “Together We Grow” aim at long-term solutions. Alaina Jalufka, the program manager, explains, “We assist food-insecure neighbors who are unemployed by providing job skills that can lead to greater stability.”
Interestingly, studies show that food insecurity is closely linked to job stability. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, nearly 10.5% of U.S. households were food insecure at some point in 2021. Programs like those at the Brazos Valley Food Bank are essential in addressing these pressing issues.
With dedication and transparency, the Brazos Valley Food Bank continues to strengthen its community impact, assuring donors that their contributions directly contribute to a crucial cause.
