For the past 15 years, Shepard's Heart has been a vital part of CTFB’s network of partner agencies, and a pillar of hope in the McLennan County community. As a faith-based organization dedicated to "feeding families, changing lives, and making a difference," their mission is to ensure that every neighbor has access to the food and resources they need. Serving 7,000 neighbors across McLennan County and beyond, Shepard's Heart has remained committed to uplifting their community with dignity and respect.
This community is home to thousands of families facing the harsh reality of food insecurity. For many children, hunger is more than just an empty stomach—it’s a barrier to education, growth, and a brighter future. Across the region, one in five children is food insecure, highlighting the urgent need for solutions that provide consistent, nutritious meals.
Hunger affects every aspect of life, from health to education and emotional well-being. For children, the lack of regular, nutritious meals can make it difficult to focus in school, which impacts their future opportunities. The need is great, but thanks to local partnerships, so are the solutions.
Since the beginning, Shepard's Heart has partnered with the Central Texas Food Bank to address the root causes of hunger in McLennan County. Through this collaboration, they’ve been able to expand their reach and provide critical resources to families, seniors, and students alike. The partnership has made it possible to serve 7,000 neighbors, deliver groceries to over 1,000 seniors, and host 17 mobile food distributions across the area.
“It is more than a partnership,” says Kathy Torres, Client Service Manager at Shepard’s Heart. “Without the CTFB partnership, we wouldn’t be able to do what we do. The Food Bank strengthens trust within the community and allows us to serve at a scale that truly makes an impact.”
The impact of this partnership is felt every day. Just last year, Shepard's Heart distributed tens of thousands of meals to neighbors in need, providing much-needed relief and hope. Families who once worried about where their next meal would come from now have access to fresh, nutritious food.
One of the most heartwarming aspects of Shepard's Heart’s work is their dedication to serving seniors. Over 1,000 seniors receive groceries delivered right to their doors, ensuring they have access to the food they need without the challenge of transportation.
For Shepard’s Heart, this work isn’t just a job—it’s a calling. “I am here to serve my community and let God work through me,” they share. “We are here to make a difference in our neighbors’ lives,” Kathy shared.
Shepard's Heart and the Central Texas Food Bank are working hand-in-hand to create a hunger-free future in McLennan County. This effort is driven by the power of community—coming together to uplift one another and ensure all our neighbors have the nutritious food they need to thrive.
Whether through volunteering, sharing our story, or simply spreading the word, everyone can play a role in building a stronger, healthier Central Texas. Together, we can make a lasting impact.
