NTxGD >> Why I Give to HCSM

If you’re reading this, you probably know that I am very involved with the Commerce Food Pantry. I’m also proud to serve on the board of Hunt County Shared Ministries.

Serving both organizations has given me a unique perspective: sometimes a food pantry can’t meet every need.

I often help with intake at the Commerce Food Pantry, which means meeting new neighbors and checking in with those we’ve served before. And I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been asked:

“Do you help with utilities?”

And I have to say, “No—I’m sorry.”

The Commerce Food Pantry simply isn’t equipped to meet those needs.

But what I can say is, “No—but are you familiar with Hunt County Shared Ministries?”

I think about one neighbor named Rita. She is a senior citizen living alone in Commerce on a fixed income. After a cold snap, her utility bill was much higher than she expected. It was more than she could manage on her own.

She tried to make it work. And then she reached out for help.

Through Hunt County Shared Ministries, Rita received assistance with her utility bill. That assistance gave her relief at a moment when things could have quickly become overwhelming.

The Commerce Food Pantry couldn’t help with Rita’s utility bill, but HCSM could.

That is one of the reasons I give to Hunt County Shared Ministries.

HCSM also provides weekend snacks and ready-to-eat meals through the MARK program for students experiencing chronic hunger throughout Hunt County. Last school year, 140 Commerce ISD children took home MARK bags on Fridays.

Through Table to Table, HCSM provides extra groceries for families at Thanksgiving and Christmas, with Commerce serving as one of the county’s distribution sites. In 2025, 427 households residing in 75428 were registered for Table to Table.

We need both organizations.

The Commerce Food Pantry helps put food on the table. HCSM helps provide food through programs like MARK and Table to Table, while also helping neighbors with needs that go beyond what a small food pantry can provide.

Together, we create a stronger safety net for our community.

That’s why I give to Hunt County Shared Ministries. I’ve seen firsthand the difference this organization makes for children, families, and neighbors in difficult seasons.

I give to HCSM because I believe every neighbor deserves a community that has a way to help when they need it most. I hope you’ll join me by making a gift this North Texas Giving Day 2026!