Food is one of the basic human needs. Since survival without sufficient nutrition is impossible in the long run, there is a dire need for food banks, pantries, and soup kitchens for those who do not have enough resources to sleep on a full stomach.
Many citizens believe that it is the responsibility of the state as well as private welfare organizations to make efforts toward eliminating hunger.
Galveston County in Texas is home to a population that struggles financially. As per the latest data (collected in 2019), 19.9% of the residents earned below the poverty level.
A list of Galveston County food banks and pantries might be useful for those who struggle to feed their families.
Galveston County Food Bank
The best thing about this non-profit organization is that it operates under a “Client Choice Food Mart” model. In this, food products are arranged in a setting similar to that of a grocery store. People can then walk around and fill their baskets. This means that there is no dumping of unwanted products on them. The products are hygienically preserved in freezers or coolers and the non-perishable items are systematically arranged on shelves.
At the Galveston County Food Bank, any misuse is controlled via pre-screening the beneficiaries and checking their income details. Only registered members are allowed inside the stores, and that too, only once every month.
Source: activerain.com
However, it does account for those individuals who might not be able to visit the pantry store. Therefore, it has mobile units that distribute large quantities of food items in various neighborhoods. It also reaches needy individuals through partner organizations and school collaborations. Furthermore, it provides aid in other forms such as job hunt assistance, healthcare, and therapy. If someone you know wishes to reach out to them, here are their contact details:
| Address | Telephone Number |
|
624 4th Ave N., Texas City, 77590 |
(409) 945-4232 |
Access Care of Coastal Texas, Inc.
Since health may significantly affect an individual’s ability to earn, this organization assists those suffering from HIV/AIDS. Many may recognize this community-based service provider via its former name, AIDS Coalition of Coastal Texas, Inc.
Source: nextdoor.com
In addition to medical care, the organization also helps in meeting food requirements and nutritional needs.
Access Care of Coastal Texas also raises awareness about HIV/AIDS and educates about preventive measures. One of its most notable services is free and confidential diagnostic tests for HIV.
| Address | Telephone Number |
| 707 23rd Street Galveston, Texas, 77550 |
(409)763-2437 |
Basic Needs Family Assistance Program – Galveston Office
COVID-19 has caused many families that were previously able to provide for themselves to become dependent on assistance from non-profit organizations. Catholic Charities recognize the fact that times are hard for everyone. Therefore, they provide food at various localities of Galveston, Fort Bend, and Houston.
Food pantries at each of these locations offer drive-through services as well. The Beacon of Hope Food Pantry in Galveston distributes food via this process on the second and the fourth Wednesdays of every month. Since the distribution starts at 9:00 AM, it is advisable to reach as early as possible to avoid long queues.
However, if you do not own a vehicle, you will not be able to avail of drive-through service. Such individuals are catered to, at the Galveston Center rest of the days via prior appointment.
This food pantry is expected to continue its operations at least till December 2021.
| Address | Telephone Number |
| 4700 Broadway, Suite F-103, Galveston, TX 77551 |
409-762-2064 |
M. I. Lewis Social Service Center
Food assistance is one of the many modes of help offered by M.I. Lewis Social Service Center to the residents of Dickinson, San Leon, and Bacliff areas in Galveston County.
This welfare organization’s food pantry distributes nutritional ingredients for preparing meals to families that are undergoing a financial crisis. Small bags of non-perishable edibles are also made available to the homeless.
Families with infants are eligible to receive formula milk and essential items such as baby wipes and diapers. Furthermore, the organization has a vast network of partners where it can refer its beneficiaries in case of any specific requirement.
| Address | Telephone Number |
|
215 FM 517 East |
(281) 534-2043 |
H.I.S Ministries
This non-profit organization serves the school districts of Santa Fe and Hitchcock. H.I.S Ministries is based on the Christian belief that giving back to the community is one of the ways to be thankful for your blessings.
Along with a food pantry, this welfare service also operates a resale shop and provides free transportation to those who need to visit medical centers for health-related issues.
Talking specifically in terms of food, applicants have to meet the Food Stamp Guidelines to qualify for availing of the benefit. Furthermore, every adult in the family applying for assistance must have a photo ID whereas every infant must have a birth certificate along with each family member having a Social Security Card. Upon meeting these and other requirements such as that minimum income and residential address confirmation, eligible families or individuals will be allowed to collect food products (meat, milk, bread, and vegetables) once a month.
| Address | Telephone Number |
|
4205 Jackson, Santa Fe, TX 77510 |
(409) 925-4697 |
We hope that these options provide some relief to families who were unaware of such benefits. However, we recommend you contact these organizations directly for any specific information regarding eligibility criteria and the registration process.