2 minute read
GIVING BACK, cont'd
OPERATION LIBERTY HILL
by Megan Diane Beatty photos courtesy Regina O'Brien
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Operation Liberty Hill is more than just a food pantry. They are fully committed to the mission of loving thy neighbor and do so by providing food, clothing, and financial assistance on a regular basis. They also manage several annual programs like Operation Share the Warmth and Angel Tree. This month, members of the community will have the opportunity to show them some love in return.
Most people are aware that high food and gas prices are squeezing the budgets of working families and sending some to food pantries for the first time. Food banks across Texas are now struggling to keep up with a demand that is increasing, even as the pandemic continues to wane. Regina O’Brien, Case Manager at Operation Liberty Hill, explains, “With inflation and housing costs skyrocketing, we have seen consistent increases in new clients. So far in 2022, we’ve assisted 29,796 people and distributed more than 260,870 pounds of food. The number of households served this year has doubled or tripled compared to the same month in 2021.”
Bare shelves mean empty stomachs so Regina has compiled a list of the items in short supply or greatest demand and is asking the community to help as much as they reasonably can.
CANNED GOODS AND BOXED DINNERS (15OZ)
Black beans Refried beans Kidney beans Pinto beans Baked beans Ranch style beans Peas Carrots Mixed vegetables Corn Green beans Apple sauce Peaches Pears Mixed fruit Canned tuna Canned chicken Tuna helper Chicken helper
HYGIENE CLOSET ITEMS NEEDED
Paper towels Shampoo conditioner combo Toothpaste Dish soap in a small bottle Laundry soap <64oz Panty liners Feminine maxi pads Adult bladder briefs size XL Baby wipes Diapers size newborn Diapers size 5 Diapers size 6 Diapers size 7 Pull ups size 3T-4T Pull ups size 4T-5T Tampons size regular Incontinence pads for men Incontinence pads for women
BE AN ANGEL
As the giving season approaches, many of us may be looking for new ways to give back. In addition to food donations, readers can also reach out to Jamie Etzkorn at lhangeltree@gmail.com to learn more about Operation Liberty Hill’s Christmas Angel Tree. This giving program benefits children in the Liberty Hill school district who need assistance for Christmas. “Christmas is such a magical time, and we want to ensure that magic for every child in the district. Liberty Hill’s community spirit is like none other, and we want that spirit to grow and continue to spread to everyone,” Jamie says.
