Children ages 5 to 10 helped package fruits, vegetables, and treats

The uncertainty of resources across the United States has resulted in an increase on food insecurity, more so in places of low-income, such as El Paso, TX. Current statistics show Texas as one of the top ten states in America with the highest percentage of households experiencing hunger, and with almost 15% of El Pasoans struggling with food insecurity, Ysleta Lutheran Mission Human Care (YLM) continues to serve its community through an Emergency Food Ministry, which was first established in 1983.

Zion’s teenagers helped load up vehicles with food boxes filled with non-perishable items

This Emergency Food Ministry has undergone many changes as YLM has worked to establish and maintain partnerships with different organizations dedicated to help eradicate hunger, such as El Pasoans Fighting Hunger (part of the West Texas Food Bank), Orphan Grain Train, and Quality Fruits and Vegetables Wholesale Company, but also with philanthropic groups and churches who have their members volunteer to help distribute to over 150 families weekly.

In February, Zion Lutheran Church, one of several local churches partnering with YLM in multiple ways, sent several of their adults, teens, and children to help put together close to two hundred food baskets, both those filled with fresh produce and non-perishable items. Their youngest volunteer, age 5, helped load up alongside her father, and all children were kept safe throughout the process as vehicles made their way to the Food Warehouse and off the YLM campus once loaded up with needed food for their families.

Timely organization at the non-perishable section is critical to keep food boxes going out in a timely manner

Several of those who came have been part of the Zion Food Pantry Drive-Thru at YLM, and those who were there for the first time experienced the joy of serving others in this manner.

Working together easily to give out generous food boxes to over 150 families in two hours

Despite the early start –all volunteers are asked to arrive at YLM by 6am –this team was eager and willing to serve where needed, with all contributing as they were able to.

“It was such a joy to have them with us,” Rev. Dr. Karl Heimer exclaimed afterwards, as he himself helps direct the drive-thru line, taking the time to converse with those who come.

For long-term volunteers who help with the Food Pantry Drive-Thru, as well as the staff dedicated to this mercy ministry, it becomes a wonderful time with the extra hands and feet, with the workload growing lighter for everyone involved.

If you would like to know how you, your family, your church, or even your company/organization can become involved with the Saturday Food Pantry Drive-Thru, call (915) 858-2588 or email maritza.munoz@ylm.org to obtain more information!