The Longview Resource Center, run by the Tyler-based East Texas Food Bank, marked its third anniversary in October. Food bank officials said the center served about 1.1 million meals in its first year, 1.2 million in its second and 1.9 million in its third. The number of meals has increased by almost 73% over that period.
Food bank officials said people who use its facilities typically come about five or six times a year, often during personal crises such as a car repair or a medical emergency. David Emerson, the food bank's CEO, said most people who face food insecurity do not face it all the time. He said the nonprofit's main role is to provide food and build connections in the community. Staff and volunteers also help people apply for assistance programs such as SNAP.
Longview resident Nicolas Priego said he has relied on the center since it opened and values meeting people there. Volunteer Amanda Derosia said the center has been busy since the start and called the past three years a success.