The South Texas Food Bank (STFB) has launched an initiative to ensure children do not go hungry during their spring break. Through the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), known as "Filling the Gap," the organization provides nutritious meals to kids at various community centers in Webb County. Sixth-grader Aissa Castillo, who spends her break at the Lamar Bruni Vergara Boys and Girls Club, highlights the importance of this program. She mentions that it significantly alleviates the burden on parents who might struggle to provide meals. The program extends beyond just one location, reaching out to 11 other community centers, benefiting around 80 to 100 individuals daily. Staff members from STFB prepare these meals, which are then distributed across the county. In times of economic hardship, CEO Alma Boubel underscores the critical role of such initiatives in supporting families.

During the spring break period, many parents face challenges in ensuring their children receive proper nutrition. To address this issue, the South Texas Food Bank (STFB) has introduced a vital program called "Filling the Gap." This initiative aims to offer warm, well-balanced meals to children at multiple community centers throughout Webb County. One such beneficiary is Aissa Castillo, a sixth-grade student who enjoys her time at the Lamar Bruni Vergara Boys and Girls Club. After engaging in sports and activities, she and other children benefit from the meals provided by the CACFP. According to Castillo, this support means a lot because it helps alleviate the financial strain on parents who would otherwise have to purchase additional food.

The effort to provide meals during spring break is not limited to the Boys and Girls Club. The program reaches out to 11 other community centers in Webb County, including the Fernando Salinas Community Center. Linda Sanchez, the manager of this center, notes that they expect between 80 to 100 visitors daily. Sanchez emphasizes the collaborative nature of this endeavor, highlighting how working together with commissioners and community centers makes a significant difference for struggling families. The staff at STFB play a crucial role in preparing and cooking these meals before distributing them to various locations. They ensure that each child receives a nutritious meal, which is especially important given the current economic climate.

With rising grocery prices and widespread layoffs, providing meals to children becomes even more critical. STFB’s CEO, Alma Boubel, recognizes the difficulties faced by parents in maintaining regular meal schedules for their children. She stresses the importance of continuing such programs to ensure that children continue to receive balanced meals. By offering free meals at participating feeding sites, the STFB aims to support families who need it most. Families can visit any of these centers without registration, as long as a child accompanies them. This initiative reflects the community's commitment to addressing food insecurity and supporting vulnerable families during challenging times.