BEAUMONT, Texas — Southeast Texas has once again demonstrated its generosity, raising $50,000 for the Southeast Texas Food Bank through the 12News Share Your Christmas campaign.
With Del Papa Distributing matching the donation, the total contribution is now at $100,000.
Harvey Zernial, President and CEO of the Southeast Texas Food Bank, shared the campaign's progress.
"We're probably at the halfway point, 15,000 pounds of our [30,000 pound] goal. But most of that comes in this week the next two days," Zernial said.
This year's campaign is showing promising momentum.
"We didn't actually hit the match of $50,000 last year until the evening of the actual day of the event which is tomorrow," said Zernial.
The food bank has an ambitious target.
"We're trying to get to $160,000, which will be a record for us. So we're starting off really really well. We're very confident about getting there, but we certainly need the community's help to get us over the finish line," said Jimmy Sparks, Southeast Texas Food Bank Chief Administrative Officer.
Whether you donated canned goods from home or bought items at Market Basket before dropping them in the bin, those donations have already gone to hungry families.
"We have about 100 partnerships in our 8 county territory that will receive these goods," Zernial said.
Volunteer Danielle Goodwin emphasized the importance of even the smallest contributions.
"The smallest amount that you're doing is impacting somebody. If it's one can. Or if it's two. Or donating money. If you're called and you feel it's heavy on you, then I would just go ahead and do it," Goodwin said.
For the food bank, this campaign is crucial. Zernial described it as their "Black Friday".
"It's our big moment to shine. And the public really steps up," he said.
How You Can Help
There's still time to contribute! Donations can be made until December 31, 2024.
You can text the word "SHARE" to 409-838-1212 to receive a list of participating stores and an online donation link.
12News remains committed to breaking records and supporting the community through this vital initiative. Every donation, no matter how small, makes a difference in fighting hunger in Southeast Texas.