We're Moving Forward!

The remodel is finally over. Our building is simply beautiful. Everything is back in running order. 2010 is pushing the limits on our resources. Since January we have distributed over 111,645 meals. Food poverty is a serious condition that forces many families to choose between providing enough food for their families or paying the rent or utility bills. Our clients are largely made up of women, children, seniors, the working poor and individuals with disabilities. Close to 46% of our clients are children and teens.

Among MISD households with school-age children accessing emergency food, more than 51 percent participate in the free or reduced lunch programs. During the summer months it's a challenge for parents to provide enough nutritional kid-friendly foods. This summer MSS has provided nutritional meals for over 1,600 children.

The food pantry recently received a letter from a client that I want to share a portion with you.

"Hunger has no age. I can tell you that. This food pantry is a necessity - people with jobs and without jobs need you. People are paying too much for rent and medical bills. I am one of those who need you. I have a son who's in school and a husband on disability. We struggle every month to make ends meet. We receive food stamps, but they by the end of the month we are struggling. When I bring the food bags home, I tell my son that I went to the food pantry and how thankful we need to be to have this food. I tell him this is how we will eat.. this is how we will survive."

The United Way Campaign is about to get underway. This year in particular we will need your support. Give generously! You can donate to United Way or designate your donations to one of the 90 agencies. Our agency number is 145.

Remember when you give to United Way, you're giving to people, not an agency. You're giving to people who need you. Without your support we would not be able to provide for the numbers of clients that we are able.

Our biggest program changes took place in our food pantry this year. With the new walk-in freezer/cooler we have been able to store and keep meats, fruits, vegetables, milk, cheeses, eggs, butter and many other food staples. We offer a "full-choice" pantry - one of the very few. Our clients shop in our pantry like they would at any grocery store choosing what and how much they need. Our pantry clients are able to make nutritional meal choices to take home to their family.

Soon fall will turn into winter bringing with it the challenges of another year. MSS will be relying upon your donations more than ever. Texans are not immune to unemployment. Everyday MSS sees more and more clients suffering from layoffs. Our reserve is on the low-side. Please remember us when your out shopping. An extra box of cereal will go along way with us.

Please stop by and visit the new Thrift Store opening September 13th. We would also love to give you a tour of the facility.