Kathy Shumake discusses Rolling Hills Church food pantry services and funding needs

In the heart of Lago Vista, a community meeting unfolded, shedding light on the vital role of local organizations in addressing food insecurity. Kathy Shumake, representing the Rolling Hills Community Church food pantry, passionately shared the pantry's mission to serve not only Lago Vista residents but also those from nearby areas like Turkey Bend and Jonestown.

Every month, the pantry provides essential non-perishable food items and $20 gift certificates for fresh produce to families in need. Operating on Tuesdays and Thursdays, the pantry has become a lifeline for many, ensuring that no one is turned away, even if transportation challenges arise. Shumake emphasized the importance of a recent grant from the city, which has been crucial in keeping the pantry operational. "Without that grant money, we could not have kept our doors open," she stated, highlighting the ongoing struggle to secure funding.

So far this year, the pantry has distributed over 300 bags of food, but with the budget exhausted, Shumake expressed the urgent need for additional grants to continue serving the community through the end of the year. The discussion underscored the pressing issue of food insecurity in the area, a concern echoed by other community members.

As the meeting progressed, council members reflected on the need for further deliberation before making any decisions regarding future funding for local nonprofits. The consensus was clear: more information and discussion were necessary before any actions could be taken.

The evening concluded with a sense of urgency and a commitment to support the community's needs, leaving attendees with a shared understanding of the challenges ahead and the importance of collaboration in addressing them.