As the need for food security programs increased in Comal County, the McKenna Foundation took action to incentivize the operation of a client-choice food pantry in New Braunfels.
Designed to resemble a small grocery store, the client-choice model allows clients to select items based on their family’s specific needs, tastes, and ability to prepare. This concept not only supports unique family needs and minimizes waste but it also provides a sense of autonomy and dignity.
When the New Braunfels Food Bank (NBFB) first opened in 2017, it represented one of the largest single investments into the community’s social infrastructure in recent history. The historic impact of this initiative is credited to the collaborative efforts among non-profit, private, and public sectors, unified by a common goal.
The McKenna Foundation and the NBFB continue to make an impact by fighting to end hunger throughout Comal County through the shared vision of:
- Food for Today: The first step to ending food insecurity is providing the resources needed to secure food for today. Emergency assistance is available to any person(s) who visits the NBFB.
- Food for Tomorrow: NBFB looks beyond today to help clients access the resources they need to stabilize their lives moving forward.
- Food for a Lifetime: NBFB strives to guide clients to health and self-sufficiency. Innovative nutrition, health, wellness, and agricultural initiatives take a holistic approach to nourishment.
