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.

“At Foundation Communities, we believe everyone deserves access to healthy food, quality health care and the resources to lead a healthier, fuller life,” said Foundation Communities Executive Director Walter Moreau.