At a recent mobile food pantry in Dove Springs, volunteers arrived early to sort produce, set up market-style tables, and prepare for a morning of service. Unlike our drive-through distributions, neighbors here walk a row of tables full of fresh produce and pantry staples, choosing the foods that fit their needs.
Volunteers accompany each neighbor, offering support and helping carry groceries to their cars. The experience is personal, rooted in dignity, and built on moments of connection.
That’s where we met George, a longtime Texan who, in his own words, never expected to need this kind of support.
He’s visited a mobile pantry three times.
He arrived with confidence, speaking openly and sharing his story without hesitation.
George brought honesty, clarity, and gratitude, offering encouragement to others who may be reaching out for support for the first time.
“Everybody is a potential recipient.”
Just a few weeks ago, George was working at a state agency. When the government shutdown began, he and many coworkers were furloughed. Paychecks paused, but bills continued.
“I’ve been in Texas for 45 years,” he said. “I’m a Texan by heart. And today, anybody — from any level of society — can be in a position where you need a little support.”
The shutdown left many families facing new challenges, some for the first time. Others are still waiting for delayed SNAP benefits or working to manage higher grocery costs.
George reached out for support early.
“I found the food bank, and I came,” he said simply. “And it’s been a great help.”
Fresh food, real choice, and a little normalcy
George and his family are vegetarians, so access to fresh produce matters. He lit up, describing the selection he received:
“Vegetables, fruits — good ones. It’s exactly what we eat. It’s been a great thing that you’re doing.”
For George, having the ability to choose matters as much as the food itself. He values that neighbors can select foods that fit their needs, reduce waste, and make their groceries go further.
“It’s helping so many people,” he said. “You see more and more every time.”
“There is no shame in coming here.”
When asked what he would tell someone hesitant to visit a pantry, George didn’t hesitate:
“Everybody has highs and lows. This service is here for when you’re in a low. People shouldn’t be shy about it. Come until you don’t need it — and then let someone else have the chance.”
His words reflect grounded wisdom. He speaks with clarity and respect.
He recognizes the dignity in both receiving support and making space for others when stability returns.
He reminds us that using a community resource is a sign of strength and community, not a personal failing.
“You should not feel like you’re lowering your status,” he said. “It has nothing to do with that. This is for people who need it.”
For neighbors experiencing reduced hours, missed paychecks, rising costs, or gaps in support, George’s voice is an important reminder:
You deserve to have food on your table.
You deserve a community that shows up.
And you are not alone.
Why this work matters
George’s story, steady and candid, reflects what we see every day:
Hunger is not a reflection of character.
Asking for help is not shameful.
Stability can shift quickly, even for those who have worked their whole lives.
Central Texas Food Bank is here so families can move through these moments with dignity, access to healthy food, and the support of their community.
Thanks to our volunteers, partners, and supporters, neighbors like George can navigate challenging times and move forward with strength.
A call to action
No one should face moments of uncertainty alone. If you or someone you know needs food assistance, you can find free groceries, meals, and community partners near you using Find Food Now.
If you’re in a position to help, your support strengthens these vital services for families across Central Texas. Click here to donate. Together, we can make sure every neighbor has the nutritious food they need.
