Foundation Communities seeks funds to save pantries, health worker programs

Foundation Communities, a nonprofit providing health and wellness services to Austinites, is seeking to raise $125,000 during Amplify Austin Day to sustain its health programs following the expiration of federal funding. The loss of American Rescue Plan Act funds in 2024 has forced the organization to scale back or eliminate key initiatives, including Healthy Food Pantries, fitness classes, health fairs and community health worker programs. To highlight the importance of these programs, the organization will kick off Amplify Austin Day with an event showcasing its Healthy Food Pantry, which distributed 383,000 pounds of food in 2024 to serve over 2,000 households. “These food pantries have become a lifeline for families facing food insecurity, especially with the rising cost of food in recent years,” Executive Director Walter Moreau said in a prepared statement. “Every dollar we raise during Amplify Austin will support our Healthy Living programs, ensuring our neighbors can access resources they need to improve their health and well-being.” The event will be held from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 5, at the Trails at Vintage Creek Apartments (7224 Northeast Drive). Donations can be made at foundcom.org/amplify.