The final food distribution event this month will take place May 30 in Kyle at the Smile Direct Facility located at 300 Vista Ridge Drive, from 8 a.m.-1 p.m.
The Central Texas Food Bank typically serves residents through more than 60 mobile food pantries each month—serving between 120-150 families each time—as well as providing food for community partners and other area nonprofits to distribute. However, with a growing need in the community due to lost jobs or income during the coronavirus pandemic, President and CEO Derrick Chubbs said the food bank created the emergency drive-up events to reach more individuals.
“So many people are living a paycheck away from being in that line [to collect food],” he said. “We have people who have lost their jobs recently and really need that help and tell us ‘I never thought I would be here.’”
In March and April, Chubbs said the food bank saw a 200% increase in new clients using their regular resources. Some only need to pick up food once or twice a month, while others could use assistance each week.
Chubbs said he expects the turnout to be twice as high in Kyle as the most recent South Austin event.
