Austin, TX, February 16th, 2023–The Central Texas Food Bank (CTFB) launched its first onsite food pantry to provide emergency access to free nutritious food for Central Texans experiencing food insecurity. The pantry will provide a healthy mix of fresh and shelf-stable food, including produce grown at CTFB’s own garden. Those accessing services will experience a dignified shopping experience, choosing the types of food that best meet their needs. After accessing food, CTFB will connect them with additional supportive services and programs.
With the number of first-time visitors to the Food Bank steadily increasing, CTFB has chosen to launch this innovative new program to provide immediate access to nutritious food and an opportunity to access support for additional services. Food Bank staff will utilize a case management model to support those who may qualify for federal nutrition programs, like SNAP and other benefits that offer empowerment and stability to those in need.
“The launch of this resource is the first of many new initiatives coming this year as part of our refreshed strategic direction,” said Sari Vatske, President & CEO of the Central Texas Food Bank. “It is critical as we expand access to nutritious food that we are also elevating the quality of services to those we serve.”
The pantry is open Monday through Friday, 9am to 4:30pm and is located in CTFB’s south Austin campus. The new pantry includes refrigeration for storing fresh food, along with consultation with key Food Bank staff that will educate visitors on additional services and provide support in navigating the process.,
ABOUT THE CENTRAL TEXAS FOOD BANK
Now in its 40th year of serving those in need, the mission of Central Texas Food Bank is to nourish hungry people and lead the community in the fight against hunger. The Food Bank provides food and grocery products through a network of nearly 300 Partner Agencies and nutrition programs, serving nearly 60,000 people every week. Headquartered in Austin, the Food Bank serves 21 counties in Central Texas, an area about twice the size of Massachusetts. For more information on the Food Bank and its programs, visit centraltexasfoodbank.org.
