Construction of a 9,200-square-foot facility for the Bastrop County Emergency Food Pantry has concluded, and the nonprofit organization served its clients from the new space for the first time Jan. 21.
The details
Kelly Manfredini, the director of marketing and communications for BCEFP, shared details of their new service model that was designed with “dignity, efficiency and care” in mind.
There will be a variety of services available to clients, including:
- A food pantry from 8:30 to 11 a.m and from 1:30 to 3 p.m. on the first Thursday of each month (launched)
- An after-hours food pantry distribution from 4 to 7 p.m. on the first Thursday of each month (launched)
- A community market, open to the public, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. on Thursdays (launching in February)
- A fresh food for families distribution from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. on the third Friday of each month (launched)
Zooming in
Clients—who are required to be Bastrop County residents, at least 18 years old and the head of the household—must schedule an appointment through an online portal or in person at the facility for access to the food pantry, BCEFP officials said.
“After requesting an appointment, neighbors will receive a pending notice,” Manfredini said in a news release. “Staff will send a confirmation of approval if they are certified to shop at the grocery store.”
An “intake” process will be required for those who are new to BCEFP or haven’t received services in the last six months, BCEFP officials said.
Some background
The $7.5 million project—financed through grants, individual donations, business partnerships and in-kind donations—will allow the nonprofit organization to have a larger service capacity.
“None of this would be possible without the incredible support of our community,” BCEFP Executive Director Tresha Silva said.
The outlook
The facility at the previous location at 806 Fayette St. in Bastrop will be repurposed.
“Crews will begin working and remodeling the space into our new Community Education Center,” Silva said.
Lend a hand
BCEFP listed several ongoing ways for area residents to assist, including:
- Donate nonperishable food items to the BCEFP at 806 Fayette St., Bastrop.
- Order food online and ship it to P.O. Box 953, Bastrop, TX 78602.
- Contribute money online.
- Host a food drive by calling the BCEFP office at 512-303-0033.
Notable quote
“With a new building and a new system, the Bastrop County Emergency Food Pantry is committed to serving neighbors more efficiently while maintaining compassion at the center of its work,” Manfredini said in the release.