Why

Gene's Corner

Thank you,to the businesses, orginizations and individuals of Cedar Hill and surrounding area that keep our doors open so we can help your neighbors.

I am proud to report The Cedar Hill Food Pantry and our clients are in much better shape than most of the United States. The economy has not mysteriously bounced back in Cedar Hill, it is that we live in such a loving, giving community. We have added 170 new, never before seen families since Jan 1, 2010. We provide food and support to an average of 1000-1300 individuals every month. Fifty persent of our clients are children 1-17 years old, 20% are seniors 50 and over, 20% are single moms with 1-4 children. That only leaves 10% of the families having two adults in the household. Many of these families have been "givers" all their lives and suddenly are finding out what it is like to be on the other side of giving. It is hard to ask for help, but it is harder to see your children go hungry.

The requirements are the same to become a client of Cedar Hill Food Pantry as that for receiving free or reduced breakfast and lunch. Over 4000 children are enrolled in this program with CHISD. All of them, and their families, could be elegible to be served by CHFP. Only God knows how many individuals we can serve at any one time. It is my job to have the courage to go to our wonderful community and find what we need to fulfill our needs. I am proud to say we have never had to turn anyone away due to not having food on the shelves.

last modified on Monday, 23 August 2010 10:09

Meet Reva and one of her six children. When Reva first interviewed to become a client she was asked "Why, after six children, did you wait untile now to leave your husband?" Her answer was "The only time he didn't beat me was when I was pregnant."

Since that time Reva has taken in two more of her previous husband's children. "Their mother had dad put in jail because she could not handle the beatings. Unfortunately, she left the kids to fin for themselves. "I could not let the state take them. They are half brothers with my kids.", said Reva.

I could stay home and let the state support me and the kids. I choose to do my part so I have a good job,. There is just not enough money for food. The Cedar Hill Food Pantry has been such a blessing for me and the kids."

Twila and her children are survivers - Hurricane Katrina Survivers. They are labeled as an independent group. Twila, is not only a single mom she is hearing impaired. To quote her daughter,"Mom always puts us kids first. Our home is always blessed with the love of God."

Twila has found employment with AFAS.

In March 2010 Linda and her husband Melvin came to Texas with high hope the job market would be better here than their home state of California. Linda, an experienced Executive Secretary, has exauced every lead. She is willing to take any job. The same story with Melvin, an experienced warehouse supervisor.

Their story is only one of 300 other families being served by Cedar Hill Food Pantry.