Robin Cadle, president and CEO of the Food Bank of the Golden Crescent, visited the City of Victoria’s Town Talk podcast to share the results of the recent Hunger Hero Challenge and to share some eye-opening statistics about hunger in our region.
Cadle said she was drawn to her current position after learning about the food bank’s role in serving vulnerable people. In the 11-county region that the food bank serves, no county is below 25% in child hunger, and the stigma surrounding food insecurity leads many families to avoid seeking help.
“It broke my heart when I saw how many children, how many seniors, needed to be served,” she said. “I don’t really feel like it’s a job; I feel like it’s more of a mission.”
Last month, community members came together to help heal the hurt of hunger through the food bank’s first-ever Hunger Hero Challenge, which saw local organizations—including the City of Victoria—competing to earn points by donating or volunteering.
Thanks to the community’s efforts, the food bank was able to raise $27,550, a “phenomenal” amount for the new program, Cadle said.
“There was kind of a leaderboard on our website, and it just got more exciting every day,” she said.
Cadle also shared some information about upcoming events and fundraisers, including the return of the 12 Days of Christmas raffle as well as opportunities during the food bank’s 40th anniversary next year.
Cadle encouraged residents to help the food bank’s mission by donating and volunteering. She emphasized that even small contributions can make a difference; for example, a $1 donation helps to provide eight meals.
“Everything you do—whether it’s monetary or one can of food—you’re helping someone meet a basic need,” she said. “We all need food. Children do better when they have a full tummy.”
To learn more, watch or listen to the latest episode of Town Talk on YouTube at Victoria Texas Videos or on Spotify at Town Talk (City of Victoria).