M.I. Lewis: Impact Report

A WORD FROM OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

As we reflect on the past year, I am filled with immense gratitude for the unwavering support and dedication that each of you has shown to M I Lewis Our accomplishments in 2023 are a testament to the collective efforts of a compassionate and committed community

Thanks to your generosity, we have been able to make a significant impact across all our programs Our mobile food distributions, in partnership with the Galveston County Food Bank, served 6,366 individuals, ensuring that many families did not go hungry. The heartwarming smiles and stories of gratitude from our clients remind us of the vital role this program plays in our community

The Senior Delivery Program made 488 deliveries to homebound seniors, providing not just food and hygiene items but also a sense of connection and love Our dedicated volunteers brought hope and human connection to those who often feel isolated, making a meaningful difference in their lives

Through the food pantry, we served 14,965 individuals, providing essential nutrition and a sense of security. Our commitment to treating every client with dignity and respect has fostered a welcoming environment where everyone feels valued

Our rent and utility assistance program supported 268 households with rental assistance and 272 households with utility assistance The one-on-one case management provided by our skilled caseworkers has been instrumental in helping clients navigate financial crises and work toward long-term stability

The internship program hosted nine interns who donated over 2,000 hours of service. These bright students from institutions such as the University of Houston - Clear Lake, Texas A&M, College of the Mainland, and Dickinson High School gained invaluable experience while significantly enhancing our capacity to serve the community.

Our self-sufficiency program, which many of our donors consider one of our most important initiatives, has empowered countless individuals and families to build stable, independent lives Through personalized case management, job search support, and educational opportunities, we are breaking the cycle of poverty and fostering long-term success

None of these achievements would be possible without the incredible support from our board members, volunteers, donors, and community partners. Your dedication and belief in our mission drive us to continually improve and expand our services. Together, we are creating a stronger, more resilient community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for your unwavering support and commitment to M.I. Lewis. I look forward to continuing this journey with you and making an even greater impact in the year ahead

Angelica Hanley Executive Director

Angelica Hanley

MOBILEFOODDISTRIBUTION

In partnership with the Galveston County Food Bank, M I Lewis hosts a mobile food distribution on the third Saturday of every month This initiative is vital in our mission to combat food insecurity within our community. Each month, dedicated volunteer groups from across the community come together to ensure the success of these distributions

In 2023, our mobile food distributions made a significant impact, serving a total of 6,366 individuals. These efforts would not be possible without the unwavering support and commitment of our volunteers. Their hard work and dedication allow us to provide essential food resources to those in need, helping to alleviate the burden of hunger for many families.

We are immensely grateful to the Galveston County Food Bank and our volunteer groups for their continued support Together, we are making a tangible difference in the lives of our neighbors, ensuring that everyone has access to nutritious food.

Mobile Food Distribution Statistics

319 volunteers provided 993 hours through the mobile food distribution

1,592 households were served through the mobile food distribution

6,366 individuals served through the mobile food distribution

MOBILE FOOD CLIENT TESTIMONAL

"I cannot express enough how much the mobile food distribution has helped my family. With the rising costs of living, it's been incredibly tough to make ends meet The monthly distributions from M I Lewis have been a lifeline for us The volunteers are always so kind and welcoming, and the food we receive is not only plentiful but also nutritious It's heartwarming to see the community come together to support one another in times of need Thanks to the efforts of M.I. Lewis and the Galveston County Food Bank, we can put healthy meals on the table and worry a little less about our next meal. We're truly grateful for the support and generosity we receive every month." Maria, Community Member

SENIORFOODDELIVERY

The Senior Delivery Program at M.I. Lewis is a vital service that brings not only food and hygiene items but also a sense of love and community to homebound seniors This program relies on the dedication of our volunteers, who ensure that these essential items are delivered directly to the doors of those who need them most.

Operating once a month, the program made a significant impact in 2023, with a total of 488 deliveries These monthly visits provide more than just physical necessities; they offer a critical social connection for seniors who may otherwise feel isolated. The friendly faces and kind words from our volunteers brighten their days and remind them that they are valued and cared for

Our volunteers play a crucial role in the success of this program, demonstrating compassion and commitment to enhancing the lives of our senior community members. Their efforts help to alleviate the struggles of daily living for homebound seniors, ensuring they have access to nutritious food and essential hygiene products

We are deeply grateful for the hard work and dedication of our volunteers and the support from the community, which make the Senior Delivery Program possible. Together, we are making a meaningful difference in the lives of our seniors, fostering a sense of dignity and connection

Senior Delivery Statistics

Seniors received food/hygiene products

24,400

Pounds of food and hygenie prodcuts were delivered to Seniors

Volunteers made home deliveries to seniors in need 488 232

“Being a volunteer for the Senior Delivery Program has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Every month, I get the chance to deliver food, hygiene items, and a little bit of companionship to homebound seniors in our community. It's incredible to see the smiles on their faces and hear their stories. For many of them, our visits are a highlight of their month, and it means so much to me to know that I'm making a difference.

One senior I visit regularly always tells me how much she looks forward to our deliveries—not just for the supplies but for the conversation and connection. It's a reminder of the profound impact that simple acts of kindness can have on someone's life. Volunteering for this program has truly opened my eyes to the importance of community and caring for one another.

I'm grateful to M.I. Lewis for providing this opportunity and to the other volunteers who share this journey with me. Together, we're not just delivering essentials; we're delivering hope and human connection." -Sharon, Volunteer

SENIOR DELIVERY TESTIMONIAL

FOOD PANTRY

2023 Food Pantry Statistics

5,724 households were served through the food pantry

697,220 pounds of food were distributed through the Food Pantry

2,678 volunteer hours were served through the food pantry 14,965 individuals were served through the food pantry 238 volunteers worked in the food pantry

The M I Lewis Food Pantry is a cornerstone of our efforts to combat food insecurity in our community. In 2023, we provided essential food assistance to 14,965 individuals, ensuring that families and individuals facing financial hardships had access to nutritious meals.

Our food pantry operates with the support of dedicated volunteers and generous donations from the community Each week, we distribute a variety of food items, including fresh produce, canned goods, and staple pantry items, to those in need The goal is not only to address immediate hunger but also to provide balanced nutrition that supports overall health and wellbeing.

One of the key aspects of our food pantry is the dignity and respect with which we treat every individual who comes through our doors. We strive to create a welcoming and supportive environment, where everyone feels valued and respected Our volunteers play a crucial role in this, offering a friendly smile, a listening ear, and compassionate service

The impact of our food pantry extends beyond the immediate provision of food It serves as a vital support system for many families, helping them to stretch their budgets further and alleviating some of the stress and anxiety that comes with food insecurity. For many, our pantry is a lifeline that helps them navigate difficult times and move toward greater stability. We are deeply grateful to all our volunteers, donors, and community partners who make the food pantry possible. Together, we are building a stronger, more resilient community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive

FOOD PANTRY TESTIMONIAL

“The M.I. Lewis Food Pantry has been a true blessing for my family. When my husband lost his job, we struggled to put food on the table. The kindness and respect we received from the volunteers made us feel welcome and supported. The fresh produce and pantry staples have made a huge difference in our daily lives. We've been able to cook nutritious meals and ensure our children are well-fed. It's more than just food; it's hope and a reminder that better days are ahead. We are so grateful to M I Lewis and everyone who supports the food pantry " Jessica, Food Pantry Client

THANKSGIVINGDISTRUBITION

The Thanksgiving Distribution at M I Lewis is a cherished annual event, held the week before Thanksgiving, that embodies the spirit of giving and community support. In 2023, we were able to distribute all the items needed to prepare a Thanksgiving meal to over 350 families. Additionally, we delivered meals directly to 47 homebound seniors, ensuring they too could enjoy a warm, festive meal

This event is truly a labor of love, made possible by the generosity and dedication of our community. Donors contribute the essential supplies, and volunteers come together to organize and distribute the meals. The collective effort required to make this event a success is a testament to the strong community spirit that defines our mission.

We are honored to host this community-wide effort every year, and we are deeply grateful for the unwavering support we receive. The Thanksgiving Distribution not only provides a much-needed meal but also brings joy and a sense of togetherness to many families and seniors in our community

"Receiving help from the M I Lewis Thanksgiving Distribution was an incredible blessing for our family With the rising costs of

we were worried about how we would afford a Thanksgiving meal this year When we heard about the distribution, we felt a sense of relief and hope The volunteers were so warm and welcoming, and the food we received was more than we could have hoped for Thanks to M I Lewis, we were able to prepare a wonderful Thanksgiving dinner with all the trimmings It brought our family together and gave us a chance to celebrate and be thankful, despite the hardships we've faced Thank you M I Lewis!”

Volunteer hours were provided.

Homebound Seniors received Thanksgiving Baskets.

Groups hosted Thanksgiving Food Drives.

SCHOOLSUPPLIES

Our annual School Supply Campaign is a vital initiative designed to ensure that every student starts the school year equipped with the necessary tools for success In 2023, we held our Back to School Community Fair in conjunction with Dickinson Independent School District (DISD) at Dickinson High School. This event was a resounding success, hosting over 1,000 students and family members.

The fair was a vibrant community event, featuring a variety of services provided by local vendors These vendors offered valuable resources and support to families, making the day not only about school supplies but also about connecting the community with essential services

Every student in need received school supplies to start off their school year right From backpacks and notebooks to pens and pencils, we ensured that no student would go without the basic items required for their education. This effort is crucial in helping to alleviate some of the financial burdens on families and to support the academic success of our students.

We are immensely grateful for the support from DISD and our community partners, whose contributions and participation made this event possible Together, we are fostering a brighter future for our children by investing in their education and well-being

1,175 DISD students received school supplies in 2023

SCHOOL SUPPLY TESTIMONIAL

"The school supply distribution program at M.I. Lewis has been a tremendous help for my family. As a single parent, affording school supplies can be challenging. It lifted a huge burden off my shoulders, allowing me to focus on other essential expenses The volunteers were kind and made the experience positive Having the right supplies has boosted my children's confidence and readiness for school I am deeply grateful for the support we've received Thank you, M I Lewis, for caring about our children's education " Laura, School Supply Distribution Recipient

INTERNSHIPPROGRAM

In 2023, our internship program continued to be a vital part of M.I. Lewis, providing hands-on experience and valuable learning opportunities for aspiring professionals We hosted nine interns who collectively donated over 2,000 hours of service These dedicated students came to us from institutions such as the University of Houston - Clear Lake, Texas A&M, College of the Mainland, Dickinson High School, and more

Our interns gained first-hand experience in the nonprofit sector, working directly with clients and assisting them in their times of need. Through this immersive experience, they learned the intricacies of nonprofit operations, client interaction, and the critical role of community support. The internship program not only benefits the students but also significantly enhances our capacity to serve the community. With their help, we were able to expand our reach and improve our services, ensuring that more individuals and families received the assistance they needed.

We are grateful for the hard work and dedication of our interns, as well as the support from the educational institutions that partner with us. By investing in the next generation of nonprofit leaders, we are fostering a future where compassion and service continue to thrive.

Internship Statistics

INTERNSHIP TESTIMONY

TESTIMONIALS?

5 area High Schools were repersented

6 universities were represented

2,112 hours were provided Interns worked on 17 major projects

“My internship at M.I. Lewis was an incredible learning experience that profoundly impacted my understanding of the nonprofit sector. Working directly with clients, I saw first-hand the challenges they face and the difference that compassionate, dedicated service can make in their lives. One of the most rewarding aspects was being able to contribute to the community while gaining practical skills and experience The team at M I Lewis welcomed me and provided excellent mentorship, allowing me to take on meaningful responsibilities and projects This experience has solidified my passion for nonprofit work and has given me the tools and confidence to pursue a career dedicated to helping others I am grateful for the opportunity to intern at M.I. Lewis and for the invaluable lessons I learned during my time here." -Aleida, Summer Intern

RENT&UTILITYASSISTANCE

In 2023, M.I. Lewis provided critical rent and utility assistance to households in need, ensuring that families could maintain stable housing and keep their utilities running during challenging times We served 268 households with rental assistance and 272 households with utility assistance, reflecting our commitment to supporting the basic needs of our community

Each client who receives rent and utility assistance benefits from one-on-one case management with a skilled caseworker. Our caseworkers offer personalized support, helping clients navigate financial difficulties and crises with tailored advice and resources. Through these sessions, clients gain valuable insights into budgeting, problem-solving, and effective crisis management

This comprehensive approach ensures that our clients are not only receiving immediate financial aid but are also empowered with the knowledge and tools to improve their long-term financial stability Our caseworkers are dedicated to fostering a supportive and educational environment, enabling clients to build stronger, more resilient futures. The impact of our rent and utility assistance program extends beyond immediate relief. It provides a safety net for families facing financial hardships, helping them avoid the devastating consequences of eviction and utility shut-offs. By addressing these critical needs, we are helping to create a more stable and secure community

We are deeply grateful to our donors, volunteers, and community partners for their continued support Together, we are making a significant difference in the lives of those we serve, providing hope and stability in times of need

Rent and Utility Statistics

268 households received rent assistance

272 households received utility assistance

1,521 volunteer hours were provided through case management

RENT AND UTILITY TESTIMONIAL

"As a caseworker at M.I. Lewis, I've helped many families through tough times. One family, the Johnsons, faced homelessness due to sudden job loss Through our rental assistance program, we provided immediate relief to cover their overdue rent and worked together on budgeting and financial management. Over a few months, the Johnsons stabilized their situation and stayed in their home. Seeing their relief and gratitude reminded me why our work is so important Providing rental assistance and empowering families with the tools to prevent future crises makes a lasting difference. I'm proud to be part of an organization that works tirelessly to prevent homelessness in our community." -Caseworker, Sue

SELF-SUFFICANCY

At M.I. Lewis, we believe that empowering individuals and families to achieve self-sufficiency is one of the most impactful aspects of our work Our self-sufficiency program is designed to provide clients with the tools, resources, and support they need to build stable and independent lives. In 2023, we made significant strides in our self-sufficiency initiatives, guided by the belief that long-term solutions are key to breaking the cycle of poverty. Through comprehensive case management, our skilled caseworkers work one-on-one with clients, helping them develop personalized plans that address their unique needs and goals This includes budgeting assistance, job search support, educational opportunities, and access to additional community resources. Our program also focuses on building essential life skills. Clients learn practical strategies for managing their finances, resolving conflicts, and navigating crises. These skills are crucial for maintaining stability and achieving long-term success.

We are particularly proud of the partnerships we have formed with local educational institutions and employers, which have expanded opportunities for our clients. By connecting them with job training programs, educational courses, and employment opportunities, we are helping to pave the way for sustainable careers and financial independence

The success of our self-sufficiency program would not be possible without the generous support of our donors. Their belief in the importance of this work drives us to continually improve and expand our services. Together, we are making a lasting difference in the lives of those we serve, helping them move from crisis to stability and ultimately, to self-sufficiency.

SELF-SUFFICANCY STATISTICS

Self-Sufficancy oneon-one Case Management Sessions were conducted

Self-Sufficancy Learning Sessions were conducted

Clients gained full time employment 12 72 540

SELF-SUFFICANCY TESTIMONIAL

"The self-sufficiency program at M.I. Lewis has been life-changing for me. After losing my job, I was struggling to make ends meet and felt overwhelmed Through this program, I received not only financial assistance but also personalized support and guidance.

My caseworker helped me develop a budget, provided job search support, and connected me with educational resources This approach gave me the tools and confidence I needed to rebuild my life Today, I have a stable job and am better equipped to handle financial challenges.

I am incredibly grateful for the support from M I Lewis This program didn’t just provide temporary relief; it empowered me to achieve long-term stability and independence."

Erica, Self-Sufficiency Program Client

2023 DATA HIGHLIGHTS

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

*THIS DATA IS SOURCED FROM OUR 2023 FORM 990.

M.I. Lewis is proud of our diverse funding base, which enables us to maintain daily operations while ensuring that the majority of our funds go directly to client services. In 2023, we received generous contributions from individual donors, corporate sponsors, grants, and community partners.

Our dedicated team manages resources efficiently, maximizing the impact of every dollar. This allows us to provide essential support such as food distribution, rental and utility assistance, and self-sufficiency programs.

We are committed to transparency and responsible stewardship of the funds entrusted to us. Thank you to our donors, sponsors, and partners for your unwavering support, which empowers us to make a lasting difference in our community.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS STAFF

Mitchell Dale, President

Lonnie Cox, Vice President

Mark Webster, Treasurer

Renee Casey, Secretary

Margaret Carney

Kathy Deats

Wyndell Deats

Betsy Dues

Virginia Gill

Genevieve McGarvey

Cecil Henry

Vicki Mims

Marjorie Morgan

Dr. Jeff Pack

Ruth Rendon

Jim Sullivan

Angelica Hanley, Executive Director

Christiane Saldana, Program Manager

Sue Rhodes, Intake Coordinator

Heather Tambrella, Food Pantry Coordinator

Chalan Shannon, Food Pantry Assistant

Mary Skinner, Bookkeeper

Isabel Sanchez, Outreach Coordinator

Cristal Cortez, Caseworker