What kind of impact are we making?

Since November 2015, we've partnered with local businesses, churches and nonprofit organizations to provide much needed food to local children and families in need.

What is it like to serve?

On the third Saturday of every month, a truck loaded with fresh food pulls into the Fire Station at Maypearl, Texas. Volunteers are on hand to unload milk, juice, fruits, veggies and whole chickens onto a makeshift assembly line. At the same time, other volunteers load up food to take to back to Waxahachie.

As certified agents of the Feed America Program, we purchase and distribute food through mobile means in order to provide fresh foods. On average, 300 families receive much needed help each month.

In order to streamline the entire process, especially given the Texas heat, we created a punch card system. This allows volunteers like Matti B. to greet each family, quickly punch their card and keep them moving through the line. The entire process is painless and fast. 

What's become the URB∆Nwell Pantry Express actually began a few years back. At one time, Maypearl Fire Station was one of six locations served by a nonprofit organization in Cleburne. When the original nonprofit ran into tough times, we were asked to become the new sponsor.

From the start, it's been a joy to work alongside partners like Stephen Wilson in Maypearl; and in Waxahachie, our long-time partners Josh Morgan from Connect 4 Life Church and Mike Shaw from God's City God's Church and What's Happening Now Ministries.

At the end of the line, John D., breaks down the empty boxes and hauls them off.  John is the kind of guy we like to call Urban Folk. From bagging chicken to breaking down boxes, he's all about faith, culture and community.

Giving and receiving help is as easy as showing up. Volunteers are always welcome and we accept onsite applications to become a participant of the food pantry program. Serving with the URBANwell Food Pantry Express is a great way to meet neighbors and make friends. We've even enjoyed the help of football teams and church groups.

 If you would like to become a financial partner, it might help to consider the cost. You can provide one family with $40-50 worth of fresh produce and protein, all for $2.75. It's a great value, for everyone involved.