STRATA in the community - Food for families 2025

Supporting Central Texas Food Banks This Holiday Season

The holiday season is a time for joy and giving for families across Central Texas, but it is also a busy period for local food banks, and many families rely on their support. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Economic Research Service,  in 2023, 47.5 million people lived in households facing food insecurity, which is about 13.5% of American families who struggled to put food on the table, and early reports indicate these numbers have increased through 2024 and 2025. In Texas, roughly 16–17% of households—about 1 in 6 Texans—are food insecure, with even higher rates among children, where about 1 in 4 experience food insecurity. According to the Central Texas Food Bank’s data, Central Texas reflects these statewide trends. These figures underscore why supporting food banks remains essential year-round, especially during the holiday season.

Food For Families - Helping Central Texas

No family should face the hardship of hunger, which is why the inspiring Food for Families initiative exists. Sponsored by Scouting America, HEB Grocery Company, the Longhorn Council, and KWTX News 10, it is the biggest one-day food drive in Texas. Each year, it gathers non-perishable food across nine counties and delivers vital aid to local food pantries and those in need.

This collaboration highlights the strength of community spirit and selflessness. In 2024, the annual food drive collected approximately 2 million pounds of food and aims for even greater success in 2025. Thanks to the generosity and commitment of many organizations, families, and individuals across central Texas, Food for Families can fill food bank shelves for the holidays and beyond.

For the fifth consecutive year, STRATA is thrilled to contribute to Food for Families' efforts by collecting 2624 non-perishable food items for donation.

The donation process is quick and effortless. The multiple drop-off locations available empower individuals to make a meaningful difference. Additionally, financial contributions are warmly welcomed. Established recipients for monetary donations include the Belton, Killeen, Temple, Clifton, Fairfield, Whitney, and Caritas of Waco pantries, which play a crucial role in serving their communities. If you missed this year’s collection date, you can still give year-round by donating directly to any of our local food banks. Together, we can help create a brighter future free from hunger.

National Help

Feeding America's Food Banks can help you locate one of the more than 200 food banks and 60,000 partner pantries across the United States. They offer a convenient map that highlights the areas projected to need the most assistance. If you are fortunate to live in an area with little need, this is a great way to identify where you can help change lives.