By Jeffra Wise DeViney

On Tuesday, Sept. 23, an official Ribbon Cutting Ceremony marked the beginning of Care Help of Sulphur Director Judy Farnum’s dream of opening a new food pantry, Hackberry Food Pantry, located at the Hackberry Recreation Center.

Through a cooperative partnership Sempra Infrastructure team led by Jeanne Trahan Willson this project became a reality to serve the west side of Cameron Parish. Wilson related, “this pantry represents more than shelves of food and supplies – it’s a symbol of community, compassion and commitment to helping our neighbors in need. We look forward to this journey and making a lasting impact in Hackberry and beyond.”

Brown’s Food Center and Hackberry Recreation Center were recognized as important community partners and in attendance at the ceremony along with many industry supporters, public officials, community leaders, Care Help Board Members and representatives from West Calcasieu Chamber of Commerce. Father Minz gave the invocation.

Farnum noted that the month of September marks National Hunger Awareness Month and invited everyone to join forces with Care Help to fight hunger through food or fund donations to help put food on tables for those struggling with food insecurity. To help call 337-528-2273 or visit the website at carehelp.org.

One in six people face hunger daily, and one in four children struggle with food insecurity at home. Thirteen percent of seniors over 60 face difficulties accessing food. When households, especially those with children, lack food security, it limits their potential. In the long term hunger limits economic growth, productivity and increases healthcare costs. Many families live paycheck to paycheck, forced to make impossible choices.

Hackberry Food Pantry will be open the 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Requirements are:

Proof of residency (West Cameron Parish): Picture ID and current lease agreement or utility bill (energy/water) in your name.

How to qualify?

Income based

SNAP Letter automatically qualifies

Social Security/Disability award letter could qualify you based on the amount and how many in the household

If you don’t have the above, please bring this in:

Pay stubs/Monthly income or Income Tax Filing

Monthly bills

Bank Statement

Dates to be open for 2025 are Sept. 25, Oct. 2, and 16, Nov. 6 and 20. December dates to be announced.