What they offer
Thirty years later, the nonprofit has expanded its role in helping locals through:
- Clothing and household items distribution
- Consultation and chaplain support
- Case-by-case financial assistance
- Weekend food support for children in need
- Monthly food delivery to elderly or disabled individuals
Mission Northeast Executive Director Tricia Bledsoe said the nonprofit’s coverage area spans nearly 800 square miles across nine ZIP codes in Montgomery and Liberty counties.
Bledsoe said much of the area the nonprofit covers includes East Montgomery County, which she noted includes some of the highest poverty rates in the county.
“We have the highest rate of poverty and the least amount of offerings [of support] in Montgomery County,” Bledsoe said.
How it works
Bledsoe noted food donations, which are provided to residents once a month, are still one of the nonprofit’s primary functions.
“It's roughly about a week's worth of meals [for a family of four],” Bledsoe said, noting the amount of food equates to about a $200 purchase at the grocery store. “If you have a larger family, we give you ... some extra meat, some more protein in there.”
Additionally, Bledsoe said the nonprofit sends food support packages to area children in need every weekend through its “Buddy Backpack Program.”
“On Fridays, the school counselors put them in their backpack so there's no stigma,” Bledsoe said. “On Monday morning, they're in a better place to start their week because this isn't their first meal after Friday at lunch.”
Bledsoe said the nonprofit also doles out roughly 13,000 pieces of clothing per month at no cost to the client.
“It's all for free,” she said. “We don't have a thrift store.”
Get involved
Bledsoe said the organization runs entirely on donations, noting individuals can contribute directly or through the nonprofit’s website.
Additionally, Bledsoe said the organization hosts several fundraisers throughout the year to bring in additional funds.
She said the organization is always looking for volunteers to assist at the facility or to help out with service delivery or fundraising events.
Looking ahead
Looking to the future, Bledsoe said the organization will continue to expand its presence as the community continues to grow. If needed, she said the nonprofit still has space at its current location to expand.
Regardless, Bledsoe said she hopes she can continue to give back to the community she grew up in.
“We just want to give back to the community and help people in need,” Bledsoe said.
- 22098 Loop 494, New Caney
- www.missionne.org
