As the holiday season approaches, particularly Thanksgiving, one concern that has been on many minds is the impact of rising food costs on their grocery budgets. How much of their hard-earned money will be gobbled up by the grocery bill during this festive time? It's a question that many are asking.
TAFB's Thanksgiving Initiative
On Thursday morning, the Tarrant Area Food Bank is stepping in to offer much-needed relief. With a massive holiday food distribution taking place at AT&T Stadium, they are hoping to offset the pressure that rising food costs have been putting on families. This partnership between TAFB and the Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic has become an annual tradition, and this year is no exception.The Thanksgiving Mega Mobile Market, supported by a multitude of organizations including AT&T Stadium, the Dallas Cowboys, American Airlines, and the Arlington Police and Fire departments, along with generous food donations from the MW Cares Foundation and Albertsons/Tom Thumb, is expected to provide nutritious food for approximately 5,000 families. This event runs from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. in Lot 4 of AT&T Stadium. For a map, click here.No identification or documentation is needed; everyone is welcome to receive food at this distribution opportunity. And for those who can't make it on Thursday, TAFB's food-finding tool can help them connect with food resources in their area.This marks the fifth consecutive year that TAFB and the Cotton Bowl Classic have collaborated on a holiday distribution event, and it's the sixth time they have partnered to coordinate these mass distribution events at AT&T Stadium. The previous five Mega Mobile Markets at the stadium have collectively provided food to more than 23,300 families.Food Insecurity in the Service Area
According to TAFB, the need for food assistance is greater than ever. More than 500,000 neighbors, including over 183,000 children, face food insecurity across their 13-county service area. In the last fiscal year alone, TAFB distributed more than 60 million meals, and they are on track to exceed this number this year.This also marks the one-year anniversary of TAFB opening its Sid W. Richardson Foundation Agricultural hub. This hub has been a game-changer, increasing access to fresh produce. In its first year of operations, it distributed more than 11 million pounds of produce, and they are projected to exceed this amount this year.Volunteer Opportunities
With the increased demand during the holiday season, TAFB is in need of volunteers. These volunteers play a crucial role in ensuring that the food distribution runs smoothly and that as many families as possible receive the help they need. Click here for more information on how to become a volunteer.Sponsorship and Donations
This year's Thanksgiving Mega Mobile Market is made possible by the generous donations of MW Cares and Albertsons/Tom Thumb. They have donated all the protein and holiday sides that will be distributed at the event, helping to ensure that families have a delicious and nutritious Thanksgiving.The Tarrant Area Food Bank's efforts to combat food insecurity and provide for families during the holiday season are truly remarkable. Through their partnerships and initiatives, they are making a significant impact on the lives of thousands of people. Their work is a testament to the power of community and the importance of coming together to help those in need.