The East Texas Food Bank distributes food to a hunger-relief network of more than 200 food pantries and feeding programs throughout our 26-county service area, which spans nearly 20,000 square miles. These food pantries, soup kitchens, emergency shelters and other nonprofit organizations then distribute this food free of charge to children, families and seniors. Partner agencies serve as the primary link between the East Texas Food Bank and East Texans facing hunger. Without the East Texas Food Bank, these agencies would not be able to afford to purchase and source enough food to feed the hungry in their communities.

A partner agency places an order from a weekly shopping list of available products through the Agency Express system. The partner agency then either picks up the food at the East Texas Food Bank in Tyler, or it is delivered to them via a rural delivery route. After stocking their shelves the agency directly provides the food to individuals and families. In FY2023, over 77,500 households were served by our partner agencies.

Some agencies even cook meals at their location, providing hot, nutritious food for people in need.  By using the resources of the East Texas Food Bank, partner agencies save millions of dollars that can be used to shelter, treat, train, counsel, protect, educate, rehabilitate, house, and comfort more individuals and families.

Want to start a pantry in your community?

Read the first steps your organization can take to help provide meals and start solving hunger where you live.

Want to become a partner with the East Texas Food Bank?

Read our list of requirements and find out how to apply to partner with us through our programs.