Every other Monday, Nikki Rivera takes a walk to the main building at Laurel Creek Apartments where her family has lived for two years. Her 8-year-old son Kaydyn walks alongside and her 1-year-old daughter Kayaura rides in a wagon that will soon be filled with food. They’re headed to the Healthy Food Pantry, one of many around Austin hosted by the Foundation Communities Health Initiatives team where residents and neighbors receive healthy food at no cost.

A single-income family, the Riveras, like many, have been affected by the rising cost of healthy food. “The way that I’m able to nourish my children’s bodies is by the pantry because without that we wouldn’t have as many things in the kitchen,” said Nikki. “So, it means a lot.” Click on the video below to watch the Rivera family visit the Healthy Food Pantry and use the food to prepare a meal.

In 2024, Foundation Communities served approximately 383,000 pounds of food and other essential items through 346 food pantries, reaching over 2,000 different households. It’s a lifeline for many people facing food insecurity.

Unfortunately, due to the loss of government funding, we may be forced to reduce the number of food pantries around Austin, as well as other health programs we offer – fitness classes, nutrition and chronic disease awareness classes, health fairs and no-cost immunizations. At Foundation Communities, we believe everyone deserves access to healthy food, quality health care and the resources to lead a healthier, fuller life. That’s why we are hoping to raise $125,000 for our health programs during Amplify Austin. “Any gift in any amount will help us continue to create a healthier, more connected Austin,” said Foundation Communities Executive Director Walter Moreau.

Early giving is underway, and Amplify Austin Day starts on March 5. Learn more about our cause and donate on our Amplify Austin page.