As of October, the CRRC of Canyon Lake distributed over 288,000 pounds of food valued at over $1 million to area residents in need.
The amount represents a 44% increase over 2023.
“The growth reflects the organization’s unwavering commitment to fighting food insecurity in our community and the vital role of donors, volunteers and supporters making this happen,” said Development Coordinator Alma Hernandez.
In 2023, the New Braunfels Food Bank alone distributed over 2.8 million pounds of food to local hungry individuals and families according to a press release issued by First Footing today.
Around 62% of the food-insecure population in Comal County is above the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) threshold, according to Feeding America. For a family of four, this would mean earning more than $4,125 a month.
Nov. 17-23 is National Hunger and Homeless Awareness Week in New Braunfels.
NB Housing Partners, Crisis Center of Comal County, Salvation Army, Comal Mental Health and the New Braunfels Food Bank accepted a proclamation from the city on Monday, Nov. 18.
“We are honored to accept this proclamation for recognition of National Hunger and Homelessness Week,” said NB Housing Partners executive director Kellie Stallings. “Last year, our First Footing Program had over 527 people ask for help, so I am happy that the city recognizes that homelessness and food insecurity affect so many in our community.
“No one agency or entity can solve food or housing insecurity, which continue to grow as our community grows. The City of New Braunfels, Comal County, and our non-profit agencies must work together to effectively address these social issues.”
According to First Footing’s press release the annual Point in Time count, which surveys those experiencing homelessness, reveals alarming trends. Homelessness doubled from 2020 to 2022, increased by 10% in 2023, and surged by 64% in 2024. Last year, the number of unsheltered individuals tripled compared to 2023.
According to the proclamation, “a minimum of 600 will face the devastating challenges of homelessness this year.”
