For families facing food insecurity across Central Texas, summer break can bring more than sunshine and pool days; it can also bring extra stress. With schools closed, many children lose access to free breakfast and lunch programs, leaving parents scrambling to stretch tight grocery budgets. On top of that, the costs of air conditioning, childcare, and summer activities can make this season especially tough for families already on the edge.
That’s why Central Texas Food Bank (CTFB) works year-round with trusted partners like the Acts Storehouse, led by longtime director Rosie Castro, to meet the rising need for food assistance. For 17 years, the Acts Storehouse has worked alongside CTFB to help meet the rising need during the summer months, and all year long.
“Summer makes it hard for families,” Rosie explains. “It’s hard anyway, but having the kids home, they need more food. They’re looking for a place where they can get help.”
How One Volunteer-Turned-Leader is Supporting Central Texas Families
Rosie has spent 15 years at the Acts Storehouse, where she began as a volunteer. Her passion for helping others is deeply personal. Years ago, her own mother sought food assistance at the Acts Storehouse, and Rosie soon followed, first as a visitor, then as a volunteer, and eventually as the director. Today, she’s a familiar and welcoming face for the hundreds of families who rely on the pantry for nourishment and support. Through her leadership and support from CTFB, the Acts Storehouse continues to expand its impact, reaching more neighbors across Central Texas with fresh food and compassionate care.
One family’s story stays with her. A mother of 11 drives over 30 minutes just to visit the Acts Storehouse when she can afford the gas. Rosie and her team make sure this family receives an abundance of food to help them through the summer months.
“She’s just so sweet and grateful. We feel blessed to help her,” Rosie says.
The Power of Partnership
As part of CTFB’s Partner Agency network, the Acts Storehouse receives regular deliveries of fresh, nutritious food and essential equipment that make consistent service possible. Regular food deliveries help keep the pantry shelves stocked, while critical equipment, like freezers provided by the Food Bank, allows Rosie and her team to store larger quantities of fresh and frozen foods, including proteins like chicken and beef.
“Now we can order way more food and have the space to store it. Our freezers are full, and that means we’re able to provide so much more to our community,” Rosie says.
For those facing homelessness, the food deliveries bring hope. Rosie shares that some neighbors watch and wait for the Food Bank trucks to arrive, knowing a meal is on its way.
A Heart for Service
When asked what keeps her going after 15 years, Rosie’s answer is simple, “I love it. I love being here. I love serving our people.”
And it shows, in the countless lives she’s touched and in the community that continues to grow around the Acts Storehouse.
Rosie is also quick to share her gratitude for the donors and supporters who make this work possible.
“Millions of thanks,” she says. “Without them, it wouldn’t be possible.”
How You Can Help
This summer, the need for food assistance continues to rise, but together, we can ensure that families across Central Texas have the nourishment they need to thrive. If you or someone you know needs food assistance, find help here.
