GEORGETOWN, TX — For 40 years, The Caring Place has been a trusted source of support for Georgetown and northern Williamson County neighbors facing financial hardship, providing food, rent and utility assistance, and other essential services that help families stay secure. As the holidays approach, the nonprofit is turning its focus to one of the busiest times of the year for its Food Pantry with the launch of the Hunger Free Holidays Food Drive.
Running October 1 through December 31, the campaign aims to collect 350,000 pounds of food to meet rising demand and ensure that no neighbor goes hungry this holiday season.
Because the holidays can be an especially challenging time for neighbors struggling to make ends meet, The Caring Place is appealing to community members to provide food support to children, families, and seniors in Georgetown and northern Williamson County.
“Through August, we have already experienced more than 33,647 visits to the food pantry which is about a 6% increase over last year,” said Food Pantry Manager David Heath. “While we have been able to respond to the growing requests for food, we are asking the community to help us ensure we can serve more neighbors during the busy holiday season.”
How to Participate
Individuals, businesses, clubs, neighborhoods, churches, or organizations are encouraged to host a food drive to collect non-perishable items. Big Blue Barrels and Little Blue Barrels are available to assist in collecting food or funds. All items collected will be weighed.
Financial donations are also welcome, for every $1 donated, The Caring Place can purchase 8 pounds of food from the Central Texas Food Bank and other suppliers.
The Impact
According to Executive Director Ginna O’Connor, “The Food Pantry does more than feed people. It’s an easy way to reduce a monthly grocery bill, allowing a family to stretch their household budget to pay for other expenses. For example, a $211 monthly savings on food for a family of four can go toward rent, utilities, prescriptions, or an unexpected car repair. Utilizing the Food Pantry is an impactful and cost-effective way The Caring Place can help struggling families make ends meet.”
Donation Details
Drop off non-perishable donations:
Drive-thru at 2000 Railroad Avenue, Monday–Saturday, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Donate online:
www.caringplacetx.org/donate
For more information about the Hunger Free Holidays Food Drive, a list of requested items, how to borrow a blue barrel, or how to volunteer at the food pantry, visit www.caringplacetx.org or call 512-943-0700.
The Food Pantry at The Caring Place is one of three food security programs offered by the nonprofit organization, which also include Fresh Food For Families and the Healthy Options Program for the Elderly (HOPE).
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