Two-minute impact
Austin’s Homeless Strategy Office, nonprofit shelter operator Endeavors and the Central Texas Food Bank are partnering to begin serving three healthier meals on weekdays for clients at the Marshalling Yard, the city announced March 5.
"This partnership represents a pivotal moment in our collective dedication to holistic and compassionate care for our clients," Homeless Strategy Officer David Gray said in a statement. "By combining the expertise of the Homeless Strategy Office, the commitment of our shelter operator Endeavors, and the expansive resources of the Central Texas Food Bank, we are poised to transform the Marshalling Yard Emergency Shelter into a beacon of hope and support, providing not just sustenance but nourishment that fosters long-term well-being."
The adjustment came weeks after several clients testified to City Council about issues they said they'd experienced while staying at the converted warehouse.
"They've had a few problems with the food, most of all it's served cold every day and it's the same options every day. Culver's, Domino's, Denny's, Taco Cabana, Church's Chicken over and over. This past week we had the Culver's burgers over again five times in a row," Marshalling Yard resident Susie Beeson told City Council on Feb. 7.
The city said the updated food options will follow Department of Agriculture dietary guidelines and include options for people with special dietary needs.
"Our dietary approach is rooted in research that underscores the critical role nutrition plays in overall health, including physical and mental," food bank President and CEO Sari Vatske said in a statement. "The nutritious and diverse menus are intended to foster a sense of dignity and contribute to the holistic well-being of those we’re serving, supporting them in leading healthier lives."
A city spokesperson confirmed the meal upgrades will cost $1 per client per day, and will not add onto the Marshalling Yard's approved budget.
Quote of note
"I think it's great that they are using a resource that already exists in the city to improve the Marshaling Yard," said Sam, a shelter client and leader with the VOCAL-TX advocacy group who preferred not to share his last name, in an email. "As a resident of the Marshaling Yard, food quality has been a big issue, and I'm glad to see the [Homeless Strategy Office] listening to what we're saying."
What's next
The Central Texas Food Bank will begin serving the new meals later in March.
The Marshalling Yard continues to operate as an emergency expansion of the city's homeless shelter system, although city officials will need to decide soon whether to continue funding the facility.
City Council voted last year to spend $9.14 million for Endeavors' work there under a one-year contract that ends later this summer.
