Denison, Texas – A local faith‑based initiative is making a tangible difference for families across the city. The Barnabas Center, operated by Park Avenue Church of Christ, has evolved from a simple church closet into a dedicated pantry that now serves hundreds of residents each month.

Freedom to Choose

Co‑administrator Karen Elmore says the pantry’s mission is to let neighbors shop for what they truly need, not what a charity assumes they should have. “When you come twice a month to do your grocery shopping, you shop for what you want, not for what we want you to have,” Elmore explained. She added that this approach leaves shoppers feeling respected and unjudged, reinforcing the center’s role as “a light for everybody.”

Hours and Services

The pantry operates the first and third Wednesdays of each month from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and again from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Volunteers guide shoppers through aisles stocked with canned goods, cereals, fresh beef, and culturally appropriate items for Denison’s diverse community, including many Hispanic families.

Family Impact

For Angel Bailey, a mother of eight who relies on a single income, the pantry is a blessing. “My husband is the only one that works, so one paycheck doesn’t cover everything,” she said. “They actually let you pick what you can eat and what your children will eat. This place has been a blessing to my family.”

Beyond groceries, the Barnabas Center provides bonus items such as toothpaste, pet food, and snacks for children. Weekend kits for kids and monthly boxes for seniors further extend its reach, offering a lifeline to vulnerable residents.

Volunteer and Donation Opportunities

The pantry’s growth was made possible by a building donation seven years ago and the ongoing support of volunteers and donors. Community members are encouraged to submit the food assistance form on the Park Avenue Church of Christ website, as well as to contribute monetary donations, food essentials, or volunteer time.

Looking Ahead

With plans for continued expansion, the Barnabas Center aims to broaden its impact, lighting even more lives throughout Denison. The initiative stands as a testament to how faith‑driven service, combined with family‑focused generosity, can strengthen neighborhoods and uphold the values of self‑reliance and compassion.

Original reporting: KXII News 12 (Gray) — read the source article.