| Like everyone today, my eyes have been opened to the effects that the spread of COVID-19 has caused on our region, country, and world. Here at the High Plains Food Bank, we have taken precautions to help keep our staff, volunteers and individuals we serve safe. |
| I am most concerned about our children, seniors, and individuals that were already struggling to make ends meet before this crisis. Now, in addition to those who are already on fixed incomes and struggling with food insecurity, we are seeing job losses and displacement. |
| We are still here, and we are preparing a response to COVID-19 – both immediate and long-term. Here’s how we are helping now: |
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Feeding more children due to school closure: On average, Kids Cafe was feeding 885 kids per day. In the COVID-19 emergency response, we have a goal of feeding 2,000 grab-and-go meals daily. We expect this number to increase if schools are delayed or canceled for the remainder of the year. |
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Preparing shelf-stable food boxes: We are needing to prepare 5,000 additional family food boxes each month to help neighbors who were already struggling with food insecurity before COVID-19 hit, as well as those who need support due to the virus’ effect on our economy. |
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| I am urgently asking for your help. This is just the first inning of a long-term response that will be needed for our area. The High Plains Food Bank has established a “Nourish the Panhandle” disaster relief fund. Our goal is to raise $500,000 to help with immediate and long-term needs caused by COVID-19. We have a generous donor that has stepped up and will match your donation up to $25,000 to get us started!
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| Your financial support will allow us to address the sharp increase in need and help our neighbors who are hurting throughout the Texas Panhandle. You can also help us show your support by engaging with us and using #WeFeedTXPH on social media. |
| Thank you for your support, |
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| Zack Wilson |
| Executive Director |
