The details
The expansion project is estimated to cost $6.5 million to complete, according to the release, and it is 75% funded through a partnership with the Huntsman Corporation and a grant from the Texas Legislature in 2023.
Construction is expected to be complete by the end of the year, and will include:
- New cold storage space
- An expanded Welcome Center
- Volunteer activity areas
- Additional warehouse space
- Additional parking space
Why it matters
The Montgomery County Food Bank has experienced a 23% increase in service requests per month from 2022 to 2023.
“Food is a basic necessity, and we must do our part to provide access to nutritious options for our neighbors who need our help more than ever. It is truly an honor to serve the community in this important way and to work with a dedicated staff and board to bring this vision to reality,” said Kristine Marlow, president and CEO of Montgomery County Food Bank.
The new expansion is expected to increase the service abilities of volunteers by 5,000 households, according to the release.
Quote of note
“We are thrilled by the extensive outpouring of support and commitment extended by Huntsman Corporation, Brynn and Peter Huntsman, Woodforest National Bank, and Woodforest Charitable Foundation,” said Jim Wolf, chair of the Montgomery County Food Bank board of directors. “They have been long-standing supporters of the good work of the food bank, and their contributions will enable a sustained source of food assistance in our community for many years to come.”
What’s next?
An additional $1.5 million is still needed to fund the completion of the expansion, the release stated. The food bank is requesting community assistance to help raise the remaining funds needed to complete construction.
