The Southeast Texas Food Bank announced a $230,000 donation from Motiva Enterprises LLC to address the growing crisis of food insecurity in the region.
The contribution includes $200,000 directed to the food bank for the purchase of a refrigerated truck, along with $30,000 allocated to six local food pantries serving the Port Arthur area.
According to Southeast Texas Food Bank officals, the Golden Triangle region ranks among the top 10 in the nation for food insecurity and Motiva’s support comes at a critical time, enabling the nonprofit to safely transport and distribute fresh, perishable food to families across the seven counties it serves.
“The new refrigerated truck will dramatically improve our capacity to reach more vulnerable households, while the additional funds will empower local pantries to expand services and respond to increasing community needs,” according to Harvey Zernial, president and CEO of the Southeast Texas Food Bank. “With reductions in grant funding and government aid, Motiva’s support is a lifeline for the one in five Southeast Texans currently facing food insecurity.”
Zernial reported the organization serves more than 75,000 individuals each month, and refrigerated trucks are critical to ensuring fresh food reaches those who need it most.
“The donation will help us keep nutritious food safe and accessible for our neighbors,” he added.
“Motiva is deeply committed to supporting our neighbors in the Port Arthur and Golden Triangle region,” said Jeff Rinker, Motiva president and CEO. “As an integral part of this community for over 125 years, we’re proud to partner with the Southeast Texas Food Bank and local pantries to expand access to nutritious food and support the wellbeing of our community.”
