Feeding the Community: The Christian Information and Service Center's Vital Role in Angelina County

In the heart of Lufkin, Texas, the Christian Information and Service Center stands as a beacon of hope, providing a lifeline to those in need. As the demand for food assistance continues to rise, this non-profit organization is facing a critical challenge – the need for both donations and volunteers to sustain its vital mission.

Empowering the Community, One Basket at a Time

Addressing the Growing Need for Food Assistance

The Christian Information and Service Center has witnessed a significant increase in the number of individuals seeking their assistance. Last year, the center served an astounding 63,000 people, and in the first half of this year alone, they have already served 33,000. This surge in demand is a testament to the growing economic pressures faced by many in the Angelina County community."More people are coming that we haven't seen before that are still working, but the checks are just not making it from month to month," explains Yulonda Richard, the executive director of the center. This sobering reality highlights the challenges faced by families who are struggling to make ends meet, despite their best efforts.

Providing a Lifeline for Families in Need

For individuals like Shanea Garner of Lufkin, the Christian Information and Service Center has become a crucial resource. Garner, who regularly visits the food pantry, expresses her gratitude for the assistance she receives, stating, "It helps out, like if you don't have the money for that in stores you can come right here to the place. It's very reasonable. They help out with a lot of families and everything."The center's ability to provide a wide range of food items, from staples to fresh produce, ensures that families can access the nourishment they need to thrive. "Any food that you find in the grocery store, you'd find here," affirms Richard, underscoring the center's commitment to meeting the diverse dietary needs of its clients.

The Vital Role of Volunteers

As the demand for food assistance continues to grow, the Christian Information and Service Center is also facing a shortage of volunteers. Lin Lentz, a part-time worker and volunteer, emphasizes the importance of additional hands to keep the operation running smoothly."We always need more hands. We need people to volunteer to work in the produce room, we need volunteers out front to run the computers and check folks in," Lentz explains. The center's reliance on volunteers underscores the community's integral role in sustaining this vital resource.

Overcoming the Challenges of the Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has also had a significant impact on the center's operations. Richard notes that the organization began to see a decrease in both donations and volunteers when the pandemic forced many people to stay indoors.However, the Christian Information and Service Center has remained steadfast in its mission, adapting to the changing circumstances and continuing to provide for those in need. Richard's unwavering faith in the community's ability to come together and support the center is a testament to the resilience and generosity of the Angelina County residents."I know what I'm asking is difficult but what I do know is that any time you ask, in Angelina County, the county always comes through," she affirms, expressing her confidence in the community's willingness to step up and support the center's vital work.The Christian Information and Service Center's commitment to serving the community is a shining example of the power of compassion and the transformative impact that can be achieved when individuals and organizations work together to address the pressing needs of those around them.