As the KBTX Food for Families Food Drive gets underway, Robertson County is facing a growing demand at its food pantries. A local church and food bank are emphasizing the need for donations to support their community. Olivia Campbell, treasurer of the Franklin Food Bank, states that the number of families in need is continuously rising. In 1998, the Franklin Food Pantry initially served around 20 families, but now it provides for more than 200 families.

Essential Donation Items

Canned green beans, soups, cereals, and noodles are among the vital items needed. As Campbell mentions, these items are in high demand and the pantry goes through thousands of them each month. The Franklin Food Bank isn't the only one lending a helping hand. The Progressive Missionary Baptist Church, which has been operating its food pantry for the past 26 years, is also a crucial resource. Pastor James Crawford explains that they are serving over 100 families, and when considering the number of people in each household, it amounts to over 250.The food bank has observed that the number of families in need increases by 50% annually. Food donations can have a significant impact, as it did for Pastor Crawford. He shares, "I'm a product of food pantries, so I feel it in here, and we look forward to doing it. We are a food pantry here where we don't turn anyone away. They can come in and we'll assist them with whatever they need."Not only do clients receive food, but they also get toilet paper, diapers, baby formula, and other toiletry items. Campbell adds, "We're blessed to be able to help those people lessen that load by providing food and toiletries, so they can focus on paying for their electricity and rent."

Donation Opportunities

All donations are welcome and greatly needed. The KBTX Food for Families Food Drive 2024 will take place on Wednesday, Dec. 4. You can conveniently drop off food and monetary donations at six sites across the Brazos Valley. This is an opportunity for the community to come together and make a difference in the lives of those in need.