Each episode, host Chris Doelle sits down with someone playing a vital role in the Food Bank of the Golden Crescents mission of “Helping Heal the Hurt of Hunger.”

In this episode of the Hunger Action Heroes podcast, host Chris Doelle interviews Pastor Ruben Castillo from Bayside Community Church. Pastor Ruben discusses his background, growing up as one of twelve siblings in a migrant family, and his journey from high school to joining the Army, healthcare, and eventually into ministry. He shares his transition from a senior leadership position in healthcare to taking a leap of faith as a full-time pastor. Pastor Ruben highlights the growth of Bayside Community Church from 18 members to over 160, attributing the growth to community engageme nt initiatives such as sunrise services, outreach programs, and the 4th of July fireworks. He focuses on the church’s significant role in running a food pantry, which feeds 1,100 to 1,200 people monthly in partnership with the Food Bank of the Golden Crescent. The church’s outreach extends to Ganado, supporting students and families and addressing food disparities in the region. Pastor Ruben concludes by inviting listeners to connect with Bayside Community Church through their website and social media platforms.

The Title Sponsor is H-E-B’s Hunger Relief Program. H-E-B’s Hunger Relief Program works year-round to fight hunger in Texas and Mexico. Hunger relief has been a key focus for H-E-B since the first store opened in 1905. For more than a century now, H-E-B’s commitment and involvement in the communities it serves has been an important part of the way the company does business. Since the inception of the Hunger Relief Program, H-E-B has donated over 1 billion pounds of food to help nourish neighbors in communities throughout Texas and Mexico.

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Each episode, host Chris Doelle sits down with someone playing a vital role in the Food Bank of the Golden Crescents mission of “Helping Heal the Hurt of Hunger.”

In this episode of the Hunger Action Heroes Podcast, hosted by Chris Doelle, the guest is Marc A. Hinojosa, Executive Director of Victoria Christian Assistance Ministries (VCAM). They discuss the history, mission, and services of VCAM, which was established in 1986 as a food pantry supported by various local churches. Hinojosa shares details of other programs VCAM offers, including a basic needs closet, free clothing store, and financial assistance for essential bills and medication. He emphasizes VCAM’s unique function as an interfaith nonprofit organization that provides all services for free. VCAM’s strong relationship with the Food Bank of the Golden Crescent is highlighted, showcasing their mutual dependence. Hinojosa also outlines volunteer opportunities and ways to support VCAM through donations. He concludes by reiterating their commitment to providing hope and essential services to the community.

The Title Sponsor is H-E-B’s Hunger Relief Program. H-E-B’s Hunger Relief Program works year-round to fight hunger in Texas and Mexico. Hunger relief has been a key focus for H-E-B since the first store opened in 1905. For more than a century now, H-E-B’s commitment and involvement in the communities it serves has been an important part of the way the company does business. Since the inception of the Hunger Relief Program, H-E-B has donated over 1 billion pounds of food to help nourish neighbors in communities throughout Texas and Mexico.

Find us on every major podcast directory!

Each episode, host Chris Doelle sits down with someone playing a vital role in the Food Bank of the Golden Crescents mission of “Helping Heal the Hurt of Hunger.”

Chris interviews Amelia Lechuga, the founder of the Food Bank of the Golden Crescent, and Frances Santellana, the Chief Operations Officer. Amelia recounts how the food bank began in 1986 due to her experience working with hungry children at Children’s Services. She discovered the concept of food banks and gradually built the organization with community support, overcoming numerous challenges. Frances joined Amelia early on, volunteering and later becoming a staff member. Both share stories of dedication, faith, and the community’s role in growing the food bank from a small operation to a major organization serving multiple counties. They reflect on the rewarding and humbling experience of feeding thousands through perseverance and the belief that their mission was divinely inspired.

The Title Sponsor is H-E-B’s Hunger Relief Program. H-E-B’s Hunger Relief Program works year-round to fight hunger in Texas and Mexico. Hunger relief has been a key focus for H-E-B since the first store opened in 1905. For more than a century now, H-E-B’s commitment and involvement in the communities it serves has been an important part of the way the company does business. Since the inception of the Hunger Relief Program, H-E-B has donated over 1 billion pounds of food to help nourish neighbors in communities throughout Texas and Mexico.

Find us on every major podcast directory!