World Food Day, observed on October 16th each year, serves as a reminder of the global issue of hunger. It's a day when people around the world come together to raise awareness and take action against hunger. While the issue may seem overwhelming on a global scale, impactful change can begin at the local level. One way to make a difference in the community is by getting involved with a Food Bank.
Many residents may be surprised to learn that hunger is a big issue within Montgomery County. Last year, Montgomery County Food Bank served over 10 million meals to an average of 65,000 people each month. This year, those numbers are growing at an alarming rate due to the rising cost of groceries, fuel, and other necessities.
Montgomery County Food Bank’s impact relies on the support of volunteers, donors, and advocates.
How You Can Help:
Spread the Word: The first step to fighting hunger is awareness. Spreading the word about the prevalence of hunger in Montgomery County and the work of MOCO Food Bank is the one thing we can all do to help. Share a social post on World Food Day!
Volunteer: Volunteer opportunities range from sorting and packaging food, volunteering at mobile food distributions, assisting with grocery deliveries to seniors, and more. Sign up at mcfoodbank.org.
Financial Contributions: With its strong buying and sourcing power, MOCO Food Bank can stretch a dollar to provide up to four meals. Every dollar makes an impact. Donate at mcfoodbank.org.
Donate Food: The Food Bank depends on nutritious, non-perishable food donations to help keep up with the growing number of people seeking food assistance. Most needed items include canned fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and canned proteins.
Host Food and Fund Drives: Rally your friends, family and/or colleagues together to host a food and fund drive. The Food Bank makes it easy to get involved by providing a variety of resources on its website to help kickstart your food drive and make it a success.
World Food Day is a reminder that collective efforts can drive change. Every contribution, no matter how small, plays a role in building a stronger Montgomery County - and beyond.
“Together, our efforts can resonate beyond a single day as we work towards a future where every child, individual, senior, and family in need has access to the basic human right of nutritious food. I am so grateful for the strong support of our community,” said Kristine Marlow, President and CEO of Montgomery County Food Bank.
Kristine Marlow, President and CEO of Montgomery County Food Bank, began her career of service as an officer in the US Air Force, where she served for eight years.
Kristine and her family have lived within the community for over 20 years. She led many programs as a volunteer and served as St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church’s Children’s Sacrament and Formation Coordinator for almost 10 years. In the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey and amid initial COVID-19 emergency response, she offered crucial aid to neighbors in need via St. Anthony’s Bread Food Pantry.
Feeling called to continue hunger relief efforts in a more impactful way, Kristine was selected to lead Montgomery County Food Bank in August 2020. A hands-on servant leader, Kristine encourages a continual quest for excellence within the organization. Kristine’s passion and esteemed leadership has brought the Food Bank’s impact to new heights in the community.
Kristine is a member of the Leadership Montgomery County Class of 2022 and currently serves as a director on The Woodlands Area Chamber of Commerce and Feeding Texas Boards.
