Manna House collects record amounts of food

Midlothian – In partnership with the North Texas Food Bank, Manna House of Ellis County participated in the “Feed the Need” food drive during the 2022 State Fair of Texas.

Every Wednesday during the State Fair’s run, fairgoers could gain entrance to the fair for only $5 when they donated five canned goods.

Stationed at all entrances, the NTFB collected more than 280,000 pounds of food for the Dallas area.

Manna House volunteered to receive donations at two gates of the State Fair.

They collected 48 Gaylord boxes – or 40,000 pounds of food – in only two days.

By partnering with local food pantries, the food collected by the NTFB can get into the hands of people who need it most quickly and efficiently.

“We are so grateful for the partnership that we have with Manna House and its commitment to addressing the complex problem of hunger in North Texas,” said Russ Bacino, Sr. Community Partner Specialist for the North Texas Food Bank.

“We simply could not do what we do in the fight against hunger without the support of our feeding partners.

“Manna House is a critical component of our efforts and we could not meet the growing need without their trust, collaboration and service to the community.”

When asked what impact an additional 40,000 pounds of food will have on Manna House’s local community, Manna House Director Sissy Franklin said, “This will allow us to feed an additional 800 people this holiday season.

“Right now, we are seeing record numbers of people applying for assistance in the food pantry.

“With the rising cost of food, supply chain issues and a looming economic recession, more people in the community need support just to make ends meet.”

Manna House serves all of Midlothian ISD, where 1 in 4 students are food insecure.

If you or someone you know needs assistance, contact Manna by calling (972) 775-1800 or visiting mannahouseoutreach.org.