Central Texas Food Bank Sets January Food Distribution Events

AUSTIN, TX — The Central Texas Food Bank has revealed the dates for its January mass food distributions for those in need of meals amid the corrosive financial effects of the coronavirus pandemic.

Food distribution events for January are as follows:

• Thursday, Jan. 7: Travis County Expo Center, 7311 Decker Lane, Austin, TX 78724, from 9 a.m. to noon.
• Saturday, Jan. 9: ACC Kyle, 1200 Kohlers Crossing, Kyle, TX 78640, from 9 a.m. to noon.
• Thursday, Jan. 21: Travis County Expo Center, 7311 Decker Lane, Austin, TX 78724 from 9 a.m. to noon.
• Saturday, Jan. 23: Del Valle High School, 5201 Ross Rd., Del Valle, TX 78617 from 9 a.m. to noon.
• Saturday, Jan. 30: KIPP School – South Campus, 5107 Interstate 35, Austin, TX 78744 from 9 a.m. to noon.

At these special food distributions, the Central Texas Food Bank will distribute free food to help those who are facing increased food insecurity during the COVID-19 pandemic. Attendees will receive an assortment of food items which will vary, depending on available supplies.

Central Texas Food Bank officials note that while these food distributions are primarily designed as drive-through events, no one in need of food will be turned away.

Recipients who are driving through are requested to make appropriate space in their trunk or hatch. Those arriving via public transportation or on foot should look for the designated walk-up area. Food bank officials recommend that recipients without vehicles bring containers in which they can carry the food, as it will be in boxes that may be difficult to carry.

WHO: The Central Texas Food Bank

WHY: During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Central Texas Food Bank continues to meet the needs of those facing hunger. In addition to these special distributions, Central Texans can also access food through our network of partner pantries and mobile food pantry distributions throughout Central Texas.

For the latest information on getting help, go to centraltexasfoodbank.org and click on “Find Food Now”. Once you find the distribution site nearest you, please call them to confirm their hours of operation since things are changing rapidly. Residents facing food insecurity also can call 2-1-1 for the latest information.

While the Food Bank stands ready to help all Central Texans affected by the pandemic, they have experienced dwindling resources amid heightened demand for its services, officials explained in an advisory. Those able to help with monetary donations can donate at centraltexasfoodbank.org.

The Food Bank also seeks volunteers to assist with these events and with food sorting in its warehouse. Anyone interested in volunteering to support the Food Bank at this critical time should visit the Food Bank’s website, centraltexasfoodbank.org, and click on “Volunteer” to sign up.

Support The Patch Holiday Food Drive

Patch has teamed with Feeding America to help raise awareness on behalf of the millions of Americans facing hunger. Feeding America, which supports 200 food banks across the country, estimates that in 2020, more than 50 million Americans will not have enough nutritious food to eat due to the effects of the coronavirus pandemic. This is a Patch social good project; Feeding America receives 100 percent of donations. Find out how you can donate in your community or find a food pantry near you.