NEW BRAUNFELS, Texas – A new distribution facility in New Braunfels will help the San Antonio Food Bank as it serves not only Bexar County, but Comal County, as well.
According to the latest U.S. Census, Comal County is the seventh-fastest growing county in the country, and with that growth comes needs. One of which is to make sure feeding families is need is a smooth operation.
The food bank broke ground Tuesday on a new facility to help make sure the need is met. The 28,000 square-foot, two-story facility will be a distribution hub for New Braunfels and Comal County.
"We will be able to ship food into this facility, and then those local nonprofits will come here to get food," said Eric Cooper, president/CEO of the San Antonio Food Bank.
It is a way to streamline the distribution process.
"It is going to be more efficient for them," said Donna Eccleston, Comal County Commissioner Precinct 1. "You're going to be using fewer resources to get what they need to give to people."
The current facility, The Kitchen Table, which is only 6,000 square feet, will reside in the new building.
"New Braunfels is growing, so it is going to make a big difference. We need it here," said Kitchen Table volunteer Maria Azua, who at one time needed the food bank's assistance.
The new facility will also have a culinary school, meeting rooms, offices and a warehouse. A garden will be planted outside.
Of course, it will also be emphasizing the opportunity for residents to volunteer.
"It is a great place for youth to volunteer, for corporate volunteers, just the community to serve," Cooper said.
"You know, it's neighbors serving neighbors," Eccleston said.
The new facility is expected to open early next year.