A La Porte family whose food stamp benefits were breached and taken
is currently getting support from people in the community who learned about their situation through media reports. Ashley Guzman and the six individuals living with her lost their monthly food aid benefits after money from her Lone Star Card was illegally used at a Sam’s Club located over 1,100 miles away in Sunrise, Florida.
Following the airing of the family’s story, several individuals reached out to KHOU 11 as well as the nearby food bank, providing offers for both financial contributions and help with grocery shopping.
“Multiple callers have expressed interest in making monetary donations for her today. One person called to offer to transport her to purchase groceries,” stated Brenda Halbardier, who manages the food pantry.
Light of Christ Lutheran Church located in La Porte.
KHOU 11 linked up Ashley’s family with the food pantry run by Light of Christ Lutheran Church. This service supports an increasing number of households facing hardship.
Halbardier states that the requirement for food aid has significantly risen over the past few years.
“We are currently seeing between 275 and 300 families a week that equates to almost 800 people,” she said. The number of people needing help has doubled each year for the last four years, according to Halbardier.
The food bank assists a varied community facing challenges with food security.
Halbardier pointed out, “These are not the usual folks you’d imagine relying on a food pantry. These are individuals who are employed but struggle to cover all their expenses each month with what they earn.”
The food bank has an open-door policy for individuals seeking aid as well as those wishing to lend a hand. Halbardier mentioned that they welcome contributions.
contributions from those wishing to donate.
“Oh, I’ll always welcome them. I’ll always welcome them.” She highlighted that the pantry consistently assists everyone in need without turning anyone away.
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