WACO, Texas (KWTX) - The lead pantry for our annual Food For Families Food Drive is encouraging everyone to get out and give Friday saying the need is greater than ever before.

Caritas of Waco has helped families put food on tables in our area since 1967 but said since the pandemic more families are needing assistance.

“Before the pandemic, 26% of Waco families were living in poverty and unable to meet basic needs,” Caritas said. “Now, during this unprecedented time, more families than ever before are needing assistance.”

In 2024, Caritas served over 91,000 individuals.

So far in 2025, they’ve served an average of 9,674 people or 2,968 households or families per month.

Ann Owen is Caritas’ executive director.

“We’ve all seen an increased number in need of our community neighbors c

See Full Page