Feeding Hope one family at a time
“Every program we offer whether it’s a backpack filled with school supplies, personalized support through our self-sufficiency program, or food delivered with compassion is a reflection of God’s love in action. This year reminded us that even in the storm, we are called to serve. I am so proud of how our community came together with faith, strength, and generosity to care for one another.”
— Angelica Hanley, Executive Director
Emergency Food Assistance
At M I Lewis, emergency food assistance is at the heart of our mission. In 2024, this work took on new urgency as families throughout Galveston County faced rising food costs, supply shortages, and the devastating impact of Hurricane Beryl.
Through our three-pronged approach our on-site Food Pantry, monthly Senior Delivery Program, and large-scale Mobile Food Distributions we ensured that individuals of all ages had consistent access to nutritious food Each program was designed not just to alleviate hunger, but to preserve dignity and restore hope
Following Hurricane Beryl, these services became lifelines for hundreds of households suddenly cut off from resources. Despite major damage to our own building, we pivoted quickly thanks to the support of our partners and volunteers and resumed emergency food operations just days after the storm.
Altogether, this network of food assistance provided stability to thousands in 2024. Each bag of groceries, each doorstep delivery, each car at a mobile food distribution represented more than food It was reassurance that our community cares, and that no one is alone in their time of need
Projects Details Outcome
Food Pantry
Senior Food Delivery
The Food Pantry served as a daily touchpoint for those facing food insecurity, offering a wide range of staples, fresh produce, and personal care items.
Extended our reach to the most vulnerable homebound seniors ensuring they received both nourishment and connection each month.
6,740 households which included 17,271 individuals received nutritious food through our food pantry.
566 Seniors received nutritious foods delivered directly to their home. 126 volunteers donated 386 hours of service.
Mobile Food Distribution
Held monthly in partnership with the Galveston County Food Bank, allowed us to serve hundreds of families in a single day, mobilizing community volunteers and meeting neighbors where they are
1,557 households which included 6,001 individuals received nutritious foods through mobile food distributions 386 volunteers donated 1,258 hours of service
“After the storm, everything felt uncertain we lost power, food spoiled, and we didn’t know where to turn. M.I. Lewis was there right away with groceries, fresh produce, and even kind words. It wasn’t just food it was comfort, hope, and a reminder that we weren’t alone.”
Angela, Food Assistance Recipient
17,271
Individuals received food through our food pantry.
719
Individuals received emergency food after hurricane Beryl
601,680
Number of pounds were distributed through through our programs
Emergency Financial Assistance
When crisis strikes, stable housing and basic utilities are often the first things at risk and the most essential to preserve. At M.I. Lewis, our Emergency Financial Assistance program is designed to catch families before they fall into homelessness, offering short-term relief and long-term guidance
In 2024, rising costs, unexpected hardships, and the destructive aftermath of Hurricane Beryl left many households in urgent need. Through our rent and utility assistance program, we provided immediate support to prevent evictions, avoid utility shut-offs, and keep families safely in their homes. But our work goes far beyond a one-time payment.
Households received emergency rental assistance preventing homelessness
Households recieved emergency utility assistance preventing utility shut-offs
Every client served receives individualized case management Our experienced staff walk alongside each household, providing tailored support in budgeting, crisis navigation, and resource coordination. This personalized approach gives clients the tools to weather future challenges and work toward lasting stability
“I never imagined I’d be in a position where I couldn’t pay my rent. When I reached out to M.I. Lewis, I expected a handout but what I received was so much more. My caseworker listened, helped me get caught up on bills, and worked with me to make a plan moving forward. I felt seen, supported, and not judged. They helped me keep my home and my dignity.”
Michael, Emergency Assistance Client
Self-Sufficiency Program
At M.I. Lewis, self-sufficiency isn’t just a program, it’s a commitment to walk alongside individuals as they move from crisis to stability We believe that lasting change happens when people are empowered with both resources and the right support
In 2024, our self-sufficiency caseworkers provided individualized guidance to help clients set achievable goals, overcome barriers, and build the skills necessary to thrive. Whether someone needed help finding a job, learning to budget, accessing education, or navigating a career change, we were there with the tools and encouragement to help them move forward. Each plan was tailored to the client’s unique situation, focusing on practical steps like improving financial literacy, connecting with workforce opportunities, or applying for GED and training programs
We also worked closely with community partners and local employers to expand access to job placements and support services.
By focusing not only on immediate needs but also long-term success, our selfsufficiency efforts are helping to break the cycle of poverty and create lasting impact in our community.
“When I first came to M.I. Lewis, I was overwhelmed and unsure of how to get back on my feet. My caseworker didn’t just help me with bills she helped me build a plan. I learned how to budget, updated my resume, and eventually found full-time work. For the first time in a long time, I feel hopeful about the future. This program didn’t just help me survive it helped me grow ”
Erica, Self-Sufficiency Client
435
One-on-One Self Sufficancy Case Managment sessions
17
Clients gained full time long term employment
Seasonal Support Year Round Impact
Gator Go Program
In partnership with Dickinson ISD, our Gator Go initiative ensured that students experiencing food insecurity had access to quick, nutritious meal kits to take home over long weekends and school breaks. In 2024, this effort helped hundreds of students stay nourished and focused because hunger should never be a barrier to learning.
Internship Program
Our 2024 internship cohort included students from six universities and five local high schools, who together donated more than 1,400 hours of service. These future leaders gained hands-on experience in nonprofit work while expanding our capacity to serve. Interns contributed to everything from direct client support to major projects and events.
Thanksgiving Food Distribution
In the true spirit of the season, M.I. Lewis provided full Thanksgiving meal kits to over 300 families and 50 homebound seniors. Volunteers, donors, and local organizations came together to ensure no table went empty and every family had a reason to give thanks, even in the wake of a tough year.
School Supplies Campaign
We partnered once again with Dickinson ISD to host our annual Back-to-School Fair Over 1,100 students received backpacks and school supplies, ensuring students had a great start to the academic year
2024 Areas Served
2024 Clients Served
Return on Investment
In 2024, M.I. Lewis demonstrated exceptional financial stewardship, with 95.6% of total expenses allocated directly to program services, and only 4.4% directed towards management and fundraising. These figures are derived from our 2024 IRS Form 990, Part IX, which details the allocation of expenses.
This allocation underscores our commitment to maximizing the impact of every dollar received, ensuring that the vast majority of our resources directly support those in need within our community.
CHANGING LIVES
BOARD OF DIRECTORS STAFF
Mitchell Dale, President
Lonnie Cox, Vice President
Mark Webster, Treasurer
Renee Casey, Secretary
Margaret Carney
Kathy Deats
Gaylynn Naiser
Betsy Dues
Virginia Gill
Genevieve McGarvey
Cecil Henry
Vicki Mims
Marjorie Morgan
Jenna Simsen
Ruth Rendon
Jim Sullivan
Angelica Hanley, Executive Director
Christiane Castaneda, Program Manager
Sue Rhodes, Intake Coordinator
Heather Tambrella, Food Pantry Coordinator
Chalan Shannon, Food Pantry Assistant
J’marri Wright, Office Assistant
Isabel Sanchez, Outreach Coordinator
Cristal Cortez, Caseworker