As families across North Texas gather to celebrate the season, food often forms the heart of cherished traditions. Yet for many households, the rising cost of groceries can transform those moments into a source of quiet stress. Through its annual Gratitude & Giving program, Texas Health Community Hope is helping ensure that holiday meals remain a time of connection, dignity and nourishment for thousands of families.

This November and December, the initiative is distributing more than 153,000 pounds of fresh produce and healthy resources to over 5,000 individuals at 48 school and community-based locations throughout the region. The program reflects Texas Health’s broader commitment to promoting healthier futures through meaningful community partnerships, strategic investments and compassionate outreach.

Participants receive seasonal fruits and vegetables such as collard greens, sweet potatoes, onions, squash, spinach, grapes and apples, along with practical tools that make meal preparation more manageable. Cutting boards, oven mitts, measuring spoons and seasonal recipes empower families to transform fresh ingredients into wholesome meals that support both physical wellness and shared connection.

“More families are struggling this year, whether it be from job losses or economic hardships,” says Matt Dufrene, vice president of Healthy People, Healthy Communities for Texas Health Community Hope. “The Gratitude & Giving program is designed to lessen that burden and help families celebrate the holiday season with nutritious food.”

At the Atatiana Carr-Jefferson Community Center in Fort Worth, the program has become a deeply anticipated tradition. Community center aide Octavian Davis observes the dedication of those who rely on it.

“They will call, email or send someone if they can’t make it,” Davis shares. “Some even move appointments. That shows how seriously our community takes its health and how meaningful this program is to them.”

Gratitude & Giving is one element of Texas Health’s broader strategy to strengthen nutrition security throughout North Texas. Additional initiatives include 21 Good For You Healthy Hub locations offering access to free produce and resources, along with the Double Up Food Bucks program, which allows individuals using SNAP benefits to double their purchasing power for fresh fruits and vegetables at participating locations. Texas Health also supports urban farmers and oversees learning garden programs at more than 40 area schools, further deepening its investment in long-term community wellness.

“Our goal is to improve the well-being of our community by helping families put healthy food on the table,” Dufrene adds. “It’s truly rewarding to know that we are also helping them create meaningful holiday memories as they enjoy those meals together.”

Through these layered efforts, Texas Health Community Hope continues to demonstrate how thoughtful, community-centered programs can transform seasonal challenges into moments of resilience, nourishment and shared humanity — reminding us that the simple act of giving healthy food can uplift lives in lasting ways.

For more information about Texas Health Community Hope programs, visit TexasHealth.org.