Programs:

Capacity Building Program

CAFB Partner Agencies operate in areas where the need is often extraordinary – with county poverty rates up to 22%, according to the most recent US census data.

The Capacity Building Program was launched in late 2006 to strengthen Partner Agency capacity, ensure improved access to food for underserved populations and areas, and ultimately advance the Food Bank's mission to nourish hungry people and lead the community in ending hunger. In 2008, the program was nationally recognized for its innovation in outreach by America's Second Harvest - the Nation's Food Bank Network. 

The program has two phases:

Planning phase: A comprehensive assessment was conducted across the Food Bank's 21-county coverage area to determine which geographic areas exhibit the greatest need (characterized by highest levels of poverty, food stamp program eligibility, free and reduced school lunch eligibility, etc.). This assessment system, in addition to research and community dialogue, enabled the Food Bank to better understand the unique challenges and opportunities that Partner Agencies face. Additionally, a step-by-step Capacity Building Roadmap was created for all Partner Agencies interested in strengthening their impact and sustainability.

Operating Phase: Starting in 2008, eight AmeriCorps Texas members will spend one year working closely with Partner Agencies in 12 focus counties. Living and serving in the same communities as the Partner Agencies, the AmeriCorps Texas members will help the agencies build stronger community coalitions, integrate smart solutions for organizational challenges, and develop innovative plans for long term success. 

Successes to date include:

Blessings from God Food Pantry in Cameron (Milam County) significantly strengthened its ability to serve people in need.  They increased the number of hungry people served from 138 when they opened in November 2006 to 1,240 in August 2007.

In addition, they developed a board of directors, which on its own raised more than $20,000 in less than nine months for their food program. They've also increased participation in community events to raise awareness, borrowed a refrigerated trailer from CAFB to transport more food from Austin to the food pantry, and significantly grown their volunteer base. 

Lord's Community Storehouse Food Pantry in Teague (Freestone County) built its capacity by growing its position within the community and renovating its infrastructure. After strengthening its board of directors and conducting a city-wide fundraiser that generated more than $7,000, they focused on long-term sustainability by replacing a damaged roof and floors and painting walls.

The number of hungry people served increased from 42 in January 2006 to 382 in August 2007. They plan to expand to serve Wortham, an underserved town on the Northwest border of the county.

Lampasas Mission Food Pantry (Lampasas County) has looked past daily operations to think big. With hopes to secure a new, larger facility to accommodate growing need, Lampasas Mission launched a  fundraising campaign to support both current need and long-term vision. With active and supportive board members, plus attention from local media, fundraising efforts have picked up.
In mid-November, the agency raised more than $8,000 at its first annual Chili Fundraiser. Since January 2006 the agency has grown from serving 586 people to 807 people in October 2007.

For more information, contact Adrienne Harrold, Capacity Building Manager, aharrold@austinfoodbank.org, (800) 786-2616 ext. 208.