Experiencing difficult times can bring out the worst - and the best - in people, and several Central Texas small businesses are doing their best to use this time as an opportunity to bless their neighbors.
With unemployment rates rising by the day, local food pantries are experiencing a massive increase in demand. Uncle Dan’s BBQ decided to start a fundraiser for Caritas and also donate “Lonestar Packs” which can feed a family of ten.
“You should always give a lending hand to people that are in need. I just feel that is the right thing to do," said Daniel Henderson Sr.
The BBQ joint helped raise close to $2,000 in a little over a week, and feed 95 families. Next week, Uncle Dan’s already has plans to deliver more Lonestar Packs.
“Uncle Dan’s BBQ has been very very beneficial to us. We appreciate the efforts they have gone through to raise these funds and make these contributions. It has been a lifesaver for us, because otherwise we were very very concerned about how we were going to be able to maintain ongoing operations,” said Buddy Edwards.
Sage Fine Jewelry is also stepping up to support Shepherd’s Heart in a ten day fundraiser going on now. When you buy a ring from Sage Fine Jewelry, 50 percent of the profit goes directly to the food pantry.
“I am humbled by what he is doing, because it means something to us. To be able to get any money in right now when our store is closed, which is 36 percent of our income to our retail store. That makes a lot of difference. They just humble me by what we are seeing right now,” said Robert Shepherd.
During a time when local nonprofits are canceling fund-raising events due to COVID-19, the financial need to continue operations is greater now more than ever.
To volunteer or contact the local food pantries you can reach Caritas at caritas-waco.org, and Shepherd's Heart at shepherdsheartpantry.org.
Of course, do not forget to continue to support our local small businesses. Uncle Dan's BBQ will continue to give out Lonestar Packs and Sage Fine Jewelry now has five more days left in the fundraiser.
