With the government closure continuing, we know that some Meridian families have been affected by the loss of SNAP benefits or missed paychecks. Additionally, several community members – both staff and parents – have asked how they can help.
Local area food banks are stepping up their efforts to support the tens of thousands who need extra support right now. If you are in need, please see below for more information.
If you are in a position to give, please consider supporting your local non-profit as indicated at the end of this message.
Food pantries and additional support
The Central Texas Food Bank hosts multiple food distribution sites with fresh produce and healthy pantry staples. They also share grocery and hot meal partners located in our area.
Families can seek assistance through local nonprofits with a short application process:
- Round Rock Area Serving Center (Serves Round Rock and the surrounding areas)
- The Caring Place (Serves Georgetown, Andice, Bartlett, Florence, Granger, Jarrell, Jonah, Schwertner, Walburg, Weir, and the portion of Hutto within GISD)
- Hill Country Community Ministries (Serves the following zip codes: 78613, 78641, 78642, 78645, 78717, 78726, 78729, 78732, 78750, and 78759 – Leander/Cedar Park area)
- St. Vincent de Paul (Serves Round Rock; find other Central Texas locations)
You can also enter your zip code into ConnectCTX to find additional local resources. The Texas Health and Human Services site will give updates on SNAP benefits.
Support at Meridian
Free and reduced-price meal applications are open all year long to help with breakfasts and lunches at school. Additionally, backpacks with food for the weekend can be sent home with your student. As always, your privacy is respected.
If your family needs support, please reach out to your child’s counselor or principal.
How can you help?
If you would like to support a local food pantry, monetary donations make a huge impact.
Local food pantries work with local grocery stores like H-E-B to purchase bulk foods at low prices.
- $25 supports 75 meals at Central Texas Food Bank
- $1 purchases 14 pounds of food at The Caring Place
- $8 fills a grocery cart worth $200-$250 at Round Rock Area Serving Center