Cordell’s Judah House Food Bank/ Thee Thrift Store has a legacy of serving their community generously and with dignity. The food bank is operated by Alan Newman, of Cordell, along with the help of an amazing group of volunteers.
“It really helps out Washita County. We average 30-45 families a week. We’ve got some that come in once a month and some that come in when they’re in a bind. We’re just here to help however we can,” stated Newman.
Last summer the food bank was approached by Enel North America, a green energy company who recently completed the Seven Cowboy Wind Project in Washita County, and inquired about future donations and what types of energy efficient improvements they might need that Enel could help with. After some much consideration and figuring of necessary upgrades, Enel was able to donate $15,000 to the food bank. Following the heartfelt donation, Enel held an employee fundraising luncheon late last summer where they were able to raise $11,000 for the food bank to use towards future food purchases.
“Working with Enel has been great. They are always there just with a phone call, text, or email. They’re on the spot whenever they can be. With the additional money from Enel we are going to do some upgrades on the building, change the lighting and making them LED, we’re adding an awning to the south of the building to help with energy efficiency on our freezers. That will help keep the sun off of them and it’ll give our volunteers some protection on rainy days,” expressed Newman.
The purpose and mission behind Enel’s partnership with the food bank is to help relieve food insecurities within rural communities such as this one.
“Creating shared value not only makes Enel happy but benefits the communities in which we operate. Working communities that are mostly rural, it is very important to us that no community have food insecurities. That’s one of the reasons why we chose to help the food pantry,” stated Tricia Evans, Enel Senior Field Coordinator – Sustainability.
Alan (Smiley) Newman stands with representatives from Enel North America. Enel’s donations toward the Judah Food Bank allowed some funded some facility improvements as well as food purchases.