Food banks and community centers across the Borderland are asking for donations and volunteers following a busy couple of months.
Friday, Molina Healthcare of Texas presented a check of $7,500 to El Pasoans Fighting Hunger. It’s a time when the food bank can really benefit from any donations as well as volunteers.
There has been an increase in migrants, to the federal workers who were without pay during the government shutdown, and the people still waiting to get their snap food benefits for the past month.
“The need at the food bank this year has grown dramatically,” said Chief Executive Officer Susan Goodell of El Pasoans Fighting Hunger.
El Pasoans Fighting Hunger distributes food through 130 agencies. One of those agencies is Borderland Rainbow Center.
“As humans, I think it’s our responsiblity to help one another regardless on what your political stance is,” said Omar Ventura. He is the Refugee Meals Coordinator at the Borderland Rainbow Center.
The center provides lunch three times a week to about 150 migrants.
“That look on their face of joy, excitement and relief. It’s the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen in my life,” said Ventura.
The Borderland Rainbow Center asked for food donations and volunteers.
Ventura said although they’re busy making sure there are enough meals for some of the migrants, the center still provides it’s regular services.
“That’s why we do Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays cause we don’t have anything particular during those times. It works out for them. I also assist with the food pantry,” he said.
El Pasoans Fighting Hunger said it’s a community effort.
“It takes a whole community to pitch in and make sure everyone in this community gets the food that they need to stay healthy and strong,” said Goodell.
Find out more about El Pasoans FIghting Hunger by clicking here.
Contact the Borderland Rainbow Center for donations or voluteer opportunities.
