Swan News

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Swan Food Pantry Celebrates Grand Achievements with First Annual Volunteer Appreciation Party

TYLER, TX – [ October 27, 2024] – The Swan Food Pantry today hosted its inaugural Volunteer Appreciation Party, a joyous occasion not only to honor the tireless efforts of its volunteers but also to celebrate a significant organizational milestone: the official receipt of its 501(c)(3) nonprofit recognition from both state and federal agencies.

The festive event, held at First Baptist Swan, welcomed volunteers with open arms, setting a warm and appreciative tone for the afternoon. Guests were immediately treated to a delightful brunch spread, generously prepared and supplied by several members of First Baptist Church Swan. "The food was an absolute hit!" remarked Michael Close, Operations Director for Swan Food Pantry. "Brunch was definitely the perfect menu choice for this celebration."

Amidst lively conversations and shared laughter, the appreciation extended beyond culinary delights. The atmosphere shifted to spirited competition with an engaging round of Bingo! Volunteers enthusiastically participated, with prizes awarded and plenty of good-natured fun as some struggled (and others excelled!) at keeping pace with the rapid calls. Smiles and laughter filled the room, highlighting the strong camaraderie among the pantry's dedicated team.

Following the games, the afternoon transitioned to the highly anticipated awards ceremony, where individual volunteers were recognized for their outstanding contributions and commitment to serving the community. Styling with pride, volunteers received custom jackets to show the community how they love to volunteer.

"This party was more than just a celebration; it was a heartfelt 'thank you' to the incredible individuals who are the backbone of the Swan Food Pantry," said Michael Close. "Receiving our 501(c)(3) status is a monumental step, assuring our donors and partners of our commitment to transparency and our mission. We couldn't have achieved this without the selfless dedication of every single volunteer."

The Swan Food Pantry looks forward to continuing its vital work, now with its official nonprofit designation, and remains deeply grateful for the unwavering support of its volunteers and the community.

About Swan Food Pantry: The Swan Food Pantry is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to alleviating hunger and food insecurity in Swan, Texas, and the surrounding communities. Driven by a mission to provide essential food resources with dignity and community support, the pantry relies on the generosity of donors and the hard work of volunteers to ensure every family has access to nutritious food.

Contact: Michael Close Operations Director Swan Food Pantry [michaelclose@swanfoodpantry.org] [swanfoodpantry.org]

We Hit 1 MILLION !!!

TYLER, TX – July 30, 2025 – Swan Food Pantry, a vital ministry of First Baptist Church Swan, proudly announces it has distributed over one million pounds of food to families in need as of the last week of July 2025. This significant achievement underscores the pantry's unwavering commitment to combating food insecurity and providing essential support to the East Texas community.

Since its establishment in 2019, Swan Food Pantry has served as a steadfast pillar in the Swan, Texas area, consistently offering free food assistance to hundreds of families each week. Operating every Tuesday from 12 PM to 6 PM, the pantry provides a dignified and accessible resource for those facing physical hunger, ensuring that nutritious food reaches vulnerable households.

"Reaching one million pounds of food distributed is a testament to the incredible dedication of our volunteers, the generosity of our donors, and the immense need within our community," said Director Michael Close. "Our mission extends beyond just physical nourishment; we aim to address spiritual hunger as well, offering hope and support alongside every food box". This milestone truly reflects God's provision and the power of a community united in service through members of First Baptist Church Swan.

The pantry relies heavily on the support of corporate partners, private donors, and dedicated volunteers who contribute countless hours to sorting, packing, and distributing food. As the demand for assistance continues, Swan Food Pantry remains committed to its vision of impacting lives by serving the community, sharing faith, and seeking Christ.

About Swan Food Pantry: Swan Food Pantry, a ministry of First Baptist Church Swan, a organization dedicated to eradicating physical and spiritual hunger in the Swan, Texas community. Since 2019, it has provided free, essential food assistance to families in need, operating weekly distribution events and fostering spiritual well-being. This year, First Baptist Church swan celebrates 115 Years of

Contact: Michael Close info@fbcswan.net or info@swanfoodpantry.org swanfoodpantry.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Swan Food Pantry Surpasses One Million Pounds of Food Distributed, Marking Major Milestone in East Texas Hunger Relief

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Swan Food Pantry Announces Urgent Meat Drive Due to USDA Cuts and East Texas Food Bank Freezer Maintenance

SWAN, TX [5.9.25] – The Swan Food Pantry is launching an urgent community-wide meat drive, effective May 1, 2025, and continuing through September 1, 2025, to address a significant and concerning reduction in meat availability for the individuals and families it serves. These cuts are a result of decreased allocations from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and a temporary, five-month shutdown of the East Texas Food Bank's freezers for essential maintenance.

The East Texas Food Bank, a key partner in supplying food to the region, recently shared the impact of these reductions:

From David Emerson, East Texas Food Bank Chief Executive Officer:

“The East Texas Food Bank has been notified that several truckloads of previously expected food from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will not be delivered. This food equates to 360,000 pounds valued at $750,000.

In addition, the Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement Program or LFPA of the East Texas Food Bank will incur a loss of 756,000 pounds of produce valued at $121,000. This program helps to purchase food produced in the state to support local and regional producers.

If funding continues to be cut, this could severely restrict our ability to meet current demand. In fiscal year 2024, the East Texas Food Bank provided 31 million meals. This year we are on track to serve over 33 million meals this fiscal year.”

These substantial reductions from both the USDA and the temporary limitations at the East Texas Food Bank will severely impact the Swan Food Pantry's ability to provide a consistent supply of meat, a crucial source of protein for those facing food insecurity.

"The news of these cuts and the temporary freezer shutdown at the East Texas Food Bank comes at a critical time," says Michal Close, Operations Director at Swan Food Pantry. "We are already seeing a consistent need in our community, and these circumstances will make it even more challenging to provide balanced and nutritious meals. We are calling on the generosity of our community to help us bridge this gap."

Call to Action: Community Meat Drive

The Swan Food Pantry is asking the public to donate commercially frozen meat to help ensure that our neighbors in need have access to this essential food group.

Donation Guidelines:

• We are gratefully accepting all types of commercially frozen meat.

• Donations can be dropped off on Tuesdays between 11:00 AM and 6:00 PM at 11364 US Hwy 69 N Tyler Texas 75706

• For drop-offs or potential pickups on other days and times, please pre-schedule by contacting us at michaelclose@swanfoodpantry.org.

Every donation, no matter the size, will directly help local families and individuals facing food insecurity. Your support will ensure that the Swan Food Pantry can continue to provide vital nourishment during this challenging period.

About Swan Food Pantry:

The Swan Food Pantry, a ministry of First Baptist Church of Swan, is committed to providing food assistance to individuals and families in need within our community. We strive to offer a welcoming and supportive environment while ensuring access to nutritious resources.

Contact:

Jeremiah Dollgener Administration Director Swan Food Pantry 903.705.9170 contact@swanfoodpantry.org www.swanfoodpantry.org

Community Stories

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Tyler Pipe Tyler Texas Gives Back

We're Gobble-ing with Gratitude!

We're so thankful for the incredible generosity of Tyler Pipe in Tyler, Texas! They've donated over 100 turkeys and hams to our food pantry, ensuring that families in need will have a delicious and festive meal this Christmas.

A huge thank you to the entire team at Tyler Pipe for your kindness and support. Your donation will make a significant difference in our community.

#Thanksgiving #Community #Gratitude #TylerPipe #FoodPantry #GivingBack 12.13.24

Swan Needs Your Help!

We Need Meat Donations

Swan Food Pantry is facing urgent problem with our primary meat supplier as they are unable to deliver for the next four months starting in May. East Texas Food Bank is the supplier, but as of May, they will be closing down their freezer unit to do some long over due unit replacements and a new roof. They will not be supplying Smith County food pantries with frozen goods for purchase. This leaves us with a critical gap in our ability to provide nutritious meals. We are appealing to our generous community and suppliers for donations of:
> Ground beef
> Chicken
> Pork
> Fish
> Financial
> Other meat products (frozen preferred)

All donations will directly benefit local families and individuals facing food insecurity. Please contact michaelclose@swanfoodpantry.org to coordinate a donation. We can arrange for pickup if necessary.