CCSC, Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word to Launch Food Pantry in the East End

As part of its 2030 Strategic Vision, CCSC will partner with the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word to open a new client-choice food pantry this summer within the St. Austin Center in Houston’s East End.

“Our Strategic Vision is to serve 50% more Houstonians in need by 2030, our 50th year of service,” CCSC President & CEO Michelle Shonbeck said. “The new pantry, and our partnership with the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word, is an important component of that vision.”

“We are grateful to God for giving us an opportunity to welcome CCSC as a partner with us in this special ministry, the choice-market pantry at St. Austin Center in the East End. It is a joy for us, the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word, to collaborate with others who share our commitment to serving our most vulnerable neighbors. We look forward to growing this partnership, and together, offering an incarnate witness to God’s love and care in our city,” said Sr. Kim-Phuong Tran, CCVI, a Sister of Charity of the Incarnate Word, Houston.

Food pantries are an essential resource for Houstonians facing basic needs crises, and those numbers are growing. One in five Houstonians—approximately 21.2% of the city’s residents—are living at or below the poverty line, according to the most recent U. S. Census Bureau report. That is the highest poverty rate among America’s most populous cities. Houston also has the highest child poverty rate among the top 10 U.S. Cities—31.7% of those ages 18 or younger. (Source: U.S. Census Bureau).

CCSC’s vision of helping 50% more Houstonians in need will be achieved by streamlining processes, maximizing current resources, growing donor and volunteer participation, and expanding its Emergency Services and Workforce Development programs.

This is a bold vision, but with your help, we can increase our impact. Ways you can help: follow us on social media (@ccschouston) to learn about volunteer needs and food drives; run donation drives for gently used clothing and shelf-stable food; volunteer individually or as a group; invite us to speak to your community (call 713-961-3993); and donate to our mission at ccschouston.org. Together, we can make a difference.