Food, job assistance easier to access in new nonprofit partnership

AUSTIN (KXAN) -- The Central Texas Food Bank is partnering with Workforce Solutions Capital Area to create a one-stop shop for community members to receive food and job assistance services.

Both services will now be provided under one roof at the Central Texas Food Bank headquarters on Metropolis Drive. This comes as Travis County sees an increase in demand for these types of services.

Sari Vatske, the CEO and President of the Central Texas Food Bank, said last year the food bank nearly saw 178,000 food insecure individuals and is anticipating about 208,000 people to go through their doors this year. That demand can be attributed to population growth and the high cost of living.

"Anytime we can provide co-located services for the increased need is a win-win for both organizations, but most importantly for those we are trying to serve," Vatske explained.

The food bank sees between 30 and 40 people come through their doors daily, and expects that number to swell after the partnership. Vatske said the organization is ready to accommodate the increased traffic.

Career counselors from Workforce Solutions Capital Area will be able to connect people to in-demand jobs and career training. The new partnership begins on Wednesday.