North Austin News

Austin Public Health Neighborhood Centers have seen a significant increase in the number of residents served this year compared to the previous year. The centers have been working tirelessly to provide essential assistance, such as rent, utility, and food support, to low- and moderate-income families. This increase in outreach highlights the growing issue of food insecurity in our communities and underscores the importance of collaborative efforts to address this pressing concern.

Neighborhood Services Unit Manager Angel Zambrano expressed gratitude for the hardworking staff at the centers and the partnership with the Central Texas Food Bank, saying, "We've unfortunately seen a rise in food insecurity in those who we often serve, but I’m thankful to say that our teams are rising to the task. It’s thanks to our hardworking staff at our Neighborhood Centers and our partnership with the Central Texas Food Bank that we’ve been able to help those in need, especially at this time of the year when families and friends are coming together for holidays and celebrations."

The numbers speak for themselves. From January to October of this year, Neighborhood Centers have served over 64,000 people at food distribution events. In comparison, during the same period in 2022, the number was 26,694. This significant increase in the number of people seeking assistance highlights the growing need for support in our communities.

Austin Public Health (APH) is not only addressing food insecurity but also actively working to meet other multifaceted needs through a comprehensive range of services. These services include crucial restaurant inspections, emergency preparedness plans, vital job assistance, and Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) programs. APH remains at the forefront of community-focused initiatives, ensuring that the most vulnerable members of our society are not left behind.

Community Services Assistant Director Donna Sundstrom encouraged anyone in need to visit one of the Neighborhood Centers and meet with their staff. She stated, "I want to encourage anyone who may need help with food, finding a job, paying rent, or other basic needs to visit one of our centers and meet with our staff. Staff are readily equipped to help meet your needs or connect you with a number of community partners who will be able to help."

Austin Public Health’s Neighborhood Centers are conveniently located across the city, with six centers in North, East, and South Austin. These centers offer services to anyone in need and are committed to providing crucial support to the community. Information about the food distribution events for the month of December 2023 and future event calendars can be found on the Neighborhood Centers website.

In conclusion, Austin Public Health Neighborhood Centers have nearly tripled the number of residents served compared to the previous year. This increase in outreach reflects the growing issue of food insecurity in our communities. The centers, in collaboration with the Central Texas Food Bank, have been working diligently to provide rent, utility, and food assistance to low- and moderate-income families. Austin Public Health remains committed to addressing the multifaceted needs of the community and ensuring that no one goes without essential support.

Click this link to access more information: https://www.austintexas.gov/news/austin-public-health-neighborhood-centers-nearly-tripled-number-residents-served-compared-previous-year