Transforming Lives: Southeast Texas Food Bank Expands to Jasper, Becoming a Comprehensive Community Resource

In a groundbreaking move, the Southeast Texas Food Bank is set to open a new location in Jasper, Texas, transforming the way it serves the region. This expansion goes beyond a traditional food bank, as the organization aims to establish a comprehensive resource hub that will address a wide range of community needs. With the support of the T.L.L. Temple Foundation, the project represents a significant investment in the well-being of the people of Jasper and the surrounding counties.

Empowering Communities, One Resource at a Time

A Collaborative Approach to Community Transformation

The Southeast Texas Food Bank's decision to expand to Jasper is the result of a collaborative partnership that recognized the need for a more holistic approach to addressing the challenges faced by the region. "That is our long-term goal whether it's in my lifetime or the next person's, we need to make sure that we're being collaboratively resourcing to better people's lives," said Harvey Zernial, CEO and president of the Southeast Texas Food Bank. This collaborative spirit has been the driving force behind the project, with the T.L.L. Temple Foundation providing significant financial support and the food bank taking on the responsibility of leading the initiative.

Repurposing and Expanding an Old Elementary School

The new Jasper location will be housed in a repurposed elementary school, J.H. Rowe. While preserving the historic building, the food bank has also expanded the facility, increasing the square footage to nearly 74,000. This strategic move allows the organization to accommodate a wide range of services and resources under one roof, creating a true one-stop-shop for the community.

Addressing Diverse Community Needs

The Jasper location will be more than just a food pantry; it will serve as a comprehensive resource hub. In addition to distributing food to the surrounding counties of Newton, Jasper, Sabine, Tyler, and Polk, the facility will also house various non-profit organizations. This means that individuals and families visiting the food pantry will have access to a range of support services, including assistance with job skills, SNAP and TANF applications, and school-related programs for children and teachers.

Expanding Reach and Ensuring Equitable Access

The expansion to Jasper is a significant step forward for the Southeast Texas Food Bank, as it allows the organization to better serve the northern counties it has previously struggled to reach. "We've never covered the five northern counties like we should. Being here in the community we can now spread our wings and make sure these communities have the same thing we have in Jefferson County," Zernial explained. This move ensures that the food bank's resources and support are more evenly distributed, promoting greater equity and access for all communities in the region.

Partnering with the Jasper Newton County Public Health District

The Jasper Newton County Public Health District has already signed a lease with the Southeast Texas Food Bank, indicating a strong commitment to collaboration and the integration of essential services. Zernial anticipates that the health services center will be able to move into the new facility by October, further enhancing the comprehensive nature of the resource hub.

A Transformative Vision for the Future

The Southeast Texas Food Bank's expansion to Jasper represents a transformative vision for the future of community support and resource distribution. By creating a centralized hub that addresses a wide range of needs, the organization is poised to have a profound and lasting impact on the lives of individuals and families in the region. This collaborative effort, backed by the T.L.L. Temple Foundation, is a testament to the power of strategic partnerships and a holistic approach to community development.