HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Research shows that 39% of households in Harris County are food insecure, exceeding the national average of 14%. Given the need in our area on this ‘Giving Tuesday’, we are highlighting an organization, an infant food bank called LIFE Houston. They are working to ensure no baby goes hungry.
Kristina De La Cruz is a new mom, and her 10-month-old son, Ezekial Reza, had a lot to say as he babbled and played with his toys. Kristina says she has a lot to be grateful for despite the challenges her family faces.
She says, between balancing school, childcare, and looking for work, she prays for strength every day, “I’m taking four classes at one time currently, so dealing with school, dealing with a baby, it does get tough, but it’s, it’s manageable.”
Kristina is one of the many who use the services at LIFE Houston. They’re a food bank for infants providing a wide variety of baby formulas and diapers since 1988. They’re on a mission to support families so they never have to make difficult decisions about nourishing their babies.
“Like I have no money for the formula. I was tempted even to give him regular milk, but then I was like, I can’t, ’cause like again, he’s a very sensitive baby on special milk.”
Shawntell McWilliams is the CEO of LIFE Houston. She says with inflation and the recent government shutdown, the need is growing, and that’s why their long-standing partnership with the Houston Food Bank is now at the forefront.
“Our formula is climate-controlled, it’s organized, and we allow families to come once a month for 12 months. So, we provide services for a year for one client.” McWilliams said.
Their services are not just for low-income individuals or families. McWilliams says any family who needs help getting formula for their baby, so if you’ve been laid off or maybe you’re working but having trouble paying for the formula, they are here to serve the community in any way they can.
This year, join Eyewitness News all day long now through 6 p.m. today on Giving Tuesday, December 2.
All donations stay in our local communities, helping the Houston Food Bank serve our neighbors in 18 counties through their 1,600 community partners.
Remember, every $1 you give helps provide three meals for people in need.
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