Dear friends,
In 2024, the Texas Panhandle endured some of the most challenging conditions in recent history. At High Plains Food Bank (HPFB), we witnessed an unprecedented surge in need—testing our limits, yet reaffirming the incredible power of community and generosity.
Responding to Crisis
When devastating wildfires broke out in February, HPFB mobilized immediately—staging emergency food boxes
and water for evacuees and displaced residents in Canadian, Fritch, Borger, and Stinnett. Within 48 hours, we partnered with government officials and relief organizations to establish disaster response centers in Hutchinson and Hemphill counties. Thanks to swift action and your support, we distributed over 260,000 pounds of food, water, and supplies to the four counties directly impacted by the largest wildfire in Texas history.
Even now, HPFB continues to assist agency partners in Hemphill, Hutchinson, and Roberts counties with essential food and supplies. The long-term need created by these fires remains high, and we are committed to using our disaster response resources to support these communities well into 2025.
While addressing the aftermath of the wildfires, HPFB also remained steadfast in supporting Perryton following the devastating 2023 tornado. We continued delivering food and supplies through November 2024 and remain dedicated to our partner agencies as Perryton rebuilds.
Unprecedented Demand for Food Assistance
Beyond disaster relief, everyday life grew harder for thousands of families. In November 2024, nearly 15,000 households sought food assistance from HPFB—the highest monthly total in our history. Throughout the year, average monthly demand rose by 19% compared to 2023. Soaring food costs drove food insecurity to new heights, affecting one in six individuals across the Texas Panhandle.
Meanwhile, HPFB faced escalating operational challenges: increased costs for food, transportation, and maintenance, coupled with a decline in food donations. Yet through it all, our mission remained clear and steadfast: to ensure no one in our community goes hungry.
Your Support Makes the Difference
In every challenge, your generosity fuels our response. Because of you, we continue delivering food to families, seniors, and children in need. Every $1 donated provides the equivalent of 9 meals, helping ensure that hope stays on the table for thousands of neighbors across the Panhandle.
As we look ahead to 2025, the road to recovery continues. But with your support, we will meet the need—one meal at a time.
Thank you for standing with us.
Sincerely,
Zack Wilson
Executive Director
