News
 
Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
Winter Coats Urgently Needed at The Storehouse Children's coats are one of the greatest needs!

Local organizations and businesses are invited to host a coat drive and share the warmth with those in need this winter

Joseph’s Coat, a program of The Storehouse Community Center that provides clothing at no cost, is asking the community for donations of new and gently used winter coats and jackets for all ages. Last year Joseph’s Coat distributed 1,829 coats to men, women, and children.

“As hot as it has been this past summer, it’s hard to believe we will all need winter coats soon, but that time is just around the corner,” said Christi Ferrell, co-director, Joseph’s Coat. “For many families, paying bills, putting food on the table, and supplying other critical needs take priority over purchasing coats, which are essential clothing needed for warmth and wellness. Additionally, warm coats provide confidence and self-worth, especially for children, enabling them to attend school, wait at the bus stop and engage in outdoor activities. The impact of a coat is much greater than many of us may realize.”

The Storehouse invites local businesses and organizations, groups, or clubs to consider hosting a coat drive.

“Volunteers and community members often ask if there are some specific ways they can help, and conducting a coat drive is a wonderful way to make an impact this season,” said Susan Gradick, co-director, Joseph’s Coat. “Many of us likely have a coat or two at home that is no longer worn that could be enjoyed by someone in need! Joseph’s Coat also welcomes monetary donations for purchasing coats needed to accommodate varying sizes and ages. Since our founding in 2009, Joseph’s Coat depends on the generous donations of our community, which enable us to serve our neighbors each week at no cost.”

Donations may be dropped off at the Joseph’s Coat shed, which is open 24 hours, seven days a week, at The Storehouse, located at 1401 Mira Vista Blvd., in the north parking lot. For large donations or anyone needing unloading assistance, clothing closet staff are onsite sorting items and can assist you on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m.

For anyone interested in volunteering at Joseph’s Coat, please sign up at https://www.thestorehousecc.org/volunteer. For anyone needing clothing, Joseph’s Coat is open on Mondays and Wednesdays by appointment only.

"Time and time again, neighbors express how Joseph’s Coat clothing closet impacts their lives,” added Gradick. “Recently we helped an older gentleman find a jacket, and he exclaimed, ‘It’s like this jacket was made just for me.’ He shared that money was tight and Joseph’s Coat helped him to stretch his budget. Children outgrow clothing and wear things that no longer fit, or they do without. Your gifts of clothing are such a blessing, helping others feel good about themselves and go forward with confidence. So please take a look in your closet or think about conducting a coat drive with your business. Your generosity means everything to those we serve.”

# # #

The Storehouse Community Center (formerly The Storehouse of Collin County) is a nonprofit founded in 2009 that provides short-term help and long-term transformation to residents in North Texas through a pathway of programs. Seven Loaves Food Pantry serves around 5,000 families each month; Joseph’s Coat Clothing Closet provides clothing at no cost; Project Hope Neighbor Care offers case management and resource referral; and The Academy Education Program provides free and reduced-cost classes to assist with language, job, and life skills development as well as job partnership opportunities, connecting neighbors to stable, high-quality employment. During its previous fiscal year, The Storehouse served 182,000 unduplicated neighbors with the support of more than 2,000 volunteers. In August 2023, the North Texas Food Bank honored The Storehouse with the Hope for Tomorrow Award, and in September 2023, The Storehouse was named a Dallas Morning News Charity. Visit www.thestorehousecc.org. The Storehouse EIN: 27-1883333

 

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
The Storehouse Launches Club 52 David Scruggs, president of Amwins Specialty Auto, greets a neighbor in the food pantry line.

52 weeks, 52 corporations…coming together for year-long impact

The Storehouse Community Center (TSCC) is inviting 52 corporations to join a unique, new club – a club that is in the business of transformation. Club 52 is a groundbreaking initiative in which corporations are invited to sponsor one week of food pantry operations at The Storehouse. The food pantry is the first point of entry to The Storehouse for most neighbors – helping them meet basic needs while connecting them with vital resources to empower them on their journeys. The vision of The Storehouse is to transform the lives of 20% of the neighbors served.

As part of a Club 52 sponsorship, corporations gain prominent recognition and exclusive benefits including volunteer opportunities.

“Club members have the opportunity to join with corporate peers in North Texas to ensure TSCC’s pantry is able to meet the needs of our neighbors each week of the year,” said Candace Winslow, CEO, TSCC. “The brainchild of Sarah Whitling, our director of stewardship and development, Club 52 is a win-win for The Storehouse, the corporations, and, ultimately, our neighbors.”

The Storehouse, which serves 149,000 unduplicated clients annually from Dallas, Collin, and Denton counties, provides 80-85 pounds of nutritious food per family to approximately 5,000 families each month. It is a501(c)3 nonprofit and is funded fully by individuals, corporations, churches, and foundations. 

Inaugural members of Club 52 include Amwins Specialty Auto, Enterprise Car Sales, HEB, Lennox, Medical City Frisco & Plano, Plunk Smith, PLLC, Preston Forrest Capital, LLC, Quilling, Selander, Lownds, Winslett & Moser, PC, Sports Value Consulting, and Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Plano.

“Amwins, a corporation that has previously volunteered with The Storehouse, is our first Club 52 member to complete their designated volunteer week, and they have done a tremendous job feeding our neighbors,” said Sarah Whitling. “As a member of Club 52, Amwins is not only financially supporting The Storehouse, but they are also donating sweat equity to help us fulfill our mission.”

During the week, Amwins filled 34 volunteer spots (66 hours of volunteer time) across five different sessions, which included bagging and preparations for the food distribution as well as working distribution and running carts, benefiting a total of 1,100 families. At the close of their volunteer week, Amwins has now completed a total of 181 volunteer hours at TSCC since they first began volunteering in 2022.

The cost for a company to become a member of Club 52 is $5,000. Corporate benefits include recognition as a presenting sponsor for one week of pantry operations, including logo shared digitally with all volunteers, printed on signage for all clients, and by email; social media recognition during the company’s sponsored week; opportunity to provide pre-approved printed marketing materials to the clients and volunteers during the week; and volunteer opportunities during the selected week and throughout the year. Year-round Club 52 recognition includes digital and printed assets as well as invitations to select donor stewardship and recognition events throughout the year.

“Each year, Amwins sets aside a week, known as Summer of Service, to allow our team to give back to our community,” said David Scruggs, president, Amwins Specialty Auto. “This year, we were proud to use this week to serve The Storehouse. Our team overwhelmingly enjoys serving here because of the unique opportunity to make a direct impact on our neighbors.”

For more information, visit www.thestorehousecc.org/club52 or contact Sarah Whitling, Director of Stewardship & Development, swhitling@thestorehousecc.org, 469.304.8772.

# # #

The Storehouse Community Center (formerly The Storehouse of Collin County) is a nonprofit founded in 2009 that provides short-term help and long-term transformation to residents in North Texas through a pathway of programs. Seven Loaves Food Pantry serves around 5,000 families each month; Joseph’s Coat Clothing Closet provides clothing at no cost; Project Hope Neighbor Care offers case management and resource referral; and The Academy Education Program provides free and reduced-cost classes to assist with language, job, and life skills development. During its previous fiscal year, The Storehouse served 149,064 unduplicated neighbors with the support of more than 2,000 volunteers. In August 2023, the North Texas Food Bank honored The Storehouse with the Hope for Tomorrow Award, and in September 2023, The Storehouse was named a Dallas Morning News Charity. Visit www.thestorehousecc.org. The Storehouse EIN: 27-1883333

 

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
Youth Leadership Council 2023-24 The 50 YLC students contributed a total of 2,114.25 hours, an average of 42.385 hours per member. Council members also volunteered across the four programs at The Storehouse, serving in the clothing closet, neighbor care, and education programs on their own accord outside of scheduled service days.

The 50-member group, representing 20 different North Texas high schools, reflects on year of service and leadership development, while honoring seniors, group leaders, and top achievers 

Founded in 2021, the Youth Leadership Council (YLC) of The Storehouse Community Center was established to provide high school leadership experience while fulfilling the mission of The Storehouse to feed, clothe, and care as neighbors in one community. As the 50 members of the 2023-24 council wrapped up the council’s third year, the group reflected on their accomplishments, recognizing their leaders, and honoring their seniors, along with this year’s three recipients of the David A. Huerta Student Volunteer Award* for the most hours of service: Nina Zucconi, 106 volunteer hours (junior, Plano West Senior High School); Theresa  Wootton, 90.25 volunteer hours (senior, John Paul II High School); and Sarah Cho, 71.5 volunteer hours (junior, Allen High School).

Midway through the academic year, this year’s council was faced with an unexpected scheduling change as The Storehouse shifted to an appointment system for food pantry distribution. Originally meeting only on Saturdays, the group had planned the year volunteering during the morning food distribution, followed by a council meeting eight Saturdays a month. When The Storehouse shifted its schedule, eliminating Saturday distributions, the group had to restructure its plans. The solution involved keeping Saturday mornings for meetings and selecting one of three weekday evenings for the group to volunteer – a potential challenge with high school schedules.

“A big part of leadership is learning to lead through change, especially unexpected change,” said Ben Skye, director of communications and culture and YLC advisor at The Storehouse. “Due to major changes in our food pantry service schedule, our leadership team had to develop a change management plan for the council going into 2024. It was inspiring to see how they came together and got the job done with teamwork and leadership. They learned a powerful lesson this year: even when you do your very best planning, circumstances outside of your control can change and you must adapt.”

The 50 YLC students contributed a total of 2,114.25 hours, an average of 42.385 hours per member. Council members also volunteered across the four programs at The Storehouse, serving in the clothing closet, neighbor care, and education programs on their own accord outside of scheduled service days. 

This year, council members also explored their personal leadership styles using the 16 Personalities report to facilitate discussions about practicing leadership across various areas in life. 

"I really never thought that I could be a good leader,” said Theresa Wootton, a YLC squad leader. “I’m not typically extroverted or charismatic, and I’m not super positive. But I found that I didn’t have to try to be something I wasn’t to contribute and to lead. I've been so grateful to be part of such a diverse leadership team, not for just one, but two years.”

Additionally, sisters Leah Devasia and Tessa Devasia, a senior and a sophomore, respectively, at John Paul II High School, were recognized for achieving 100 percent attendance by participating in all required YLC activities, including a meet and greet, orientation, a summer volunteer session, a midweek food bagging and planning session, eight service days, and eight YLC meetings.

“My experience volunteering at The Storehouse showed me how much time, effort, and communication goes into running an efficient organization,” said Leah Devasia, senior, John Paul II High School. “I hope to handle my responsibilities as well as The Storehouse staff in college and in my future career!”

Fourteen seniors were recognized for their year of service: Lakshmi Aravindan, Charlotte Blank, Leah Devasia, Matthew Farrell, Justin Goodlin, Katherine Happe, Lauren Latham, Adil Miah, Lupe Oloyede, Ajay Raghavan, Henry Rutnam, Ally Troxler, Theresa Wootton, and Shirley Xinyi Yang.

Additionally, five squad leaders, Charlotte Blank, Leah Devasia, Katherine Happe, Ajay Raghavan, and Theresa Wootton, along with five assistant squad leaders, Ava Henry, Carter Jacob, Blair Neumayer, Ally Troxler, and Henry Troxler, were recognized for their efforts in helping plan and execute the YLC's objectives and activities this past year.

The 2023-24 YLC members represented the following 20 high schools: Allen High School, Frisco High School, Frisco Memorial High School, Harmony Science Academy, Hebron High School, Jasper High School, JJ Pearce High School, Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas, John Paul II High School, Leadership Prep School – Frisco, Lebanon Trail High School, McKinney Boyd High School, Plano East Senior High School, Plano West Senior High School, Prestonwood Christian Academy, Prince of Peace Christian School, Rick Reedy High School, Shepton High School, The Episcopal School of Dallas, and Wakeland High School.

"This is my second year serving as advisor for the council, and I am so proud to see how the program continues to innovate and grow,” added Skye. “Our student leaders play a major role in strategizing and implementing plans for the year while cultivating an inclusive, diverse, and supportive environment for their peers to interact and serve their community. One of my favorite points of feedback this year was from a student who shared how he always looks forward to coming to the YLC. He shared that even when it was a bad week at school, YLC was always an uplifting place to be!”

The YLC roster is complete for the 2024-25 year, but all high schoolers are invited to sign up and volunteer at The Storehouse. To volunteer, visit www.thestorehousecc.org/volunteer-sign-up.  To learn more about the YLC, visit www.thestorehousecc.org/ylc

“We created the YLC to provide students an opportunity to serve our neighbors while developing life and leadership skills,” said Candace Winslow, CEO, The Storehouse Community Center. “Under the leadership of Ben Skye, our director of communications and culture, the YLC has developed into so much more. Students are not only learning more about themselves, but they are also seeing that they can create positive change in the world. We are beyond grateful for their many hours of service and the love and care they have shown to our neighbors.”

 

*DAVID A. HUERTA, 21, the award’s namesake, began volunteering at The Storehouse at age 14 after he and his family arrived in Plano as immigrants from Venezuela. He volunteered weekly, helped found the YLC, and is currently a student at the University of Texas at Dallas, majoring in finance. He is a YLC advisor and works part time with The Storehouse team.

# # #

The Storehouse Community Center (formerly The Storehouse of Collin County), is a nonprofit founded in 2009 that provides short-term help and long-term transformation to residents in North Texas through a pathway of programs. Seven Loaves Food Pantry serves around 5,000 families each month; Joseph’s Coat Clothing Closet provides clothing at no cost; Project Hope Neighbor Care offers case management and resource referral; and The Academy Education Program provides free and reduced-cost classes to assist with language, job, and life skills development. During its previous fiscal year, The Storehouse served 149,064 unduplicated neighbors with the support of more than 2,000 volunteers. In August 2023, the North Texas Food Bank honored The Storehouse with the Hope for Tomorrow Award, and in September 2023, The Storehouse was named a Dallas Morning News Charity. Visit www.thestorehousecc.org. The Storehouse EIN: 27-1883333

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
The Academy Spring '24 Graduation Ceremony recognized first group of graduates (11 total) to complete all six levels of English as a Second Language (ESL) courses.

Ceremony recognizes first group of graduates (11 total) to complete all six levels of English as a Second Language (ESL) courses 

The Storehouse Community Center hosted a historic graduation ceremony on May 18, in the sanctuary of St. Andrew Methodist Church, with special recognition of the first graduates of all six levels of The Academy’s English as a Second Language (ESL) program. These 11 graduates are part of a group of 148 ESL students who received certificates for the completion of an ESL class level. In addition, nine Academy students received their Modern Automotive Service and Repair certificates for completing a six-week course held in partnership with Collin College.

“Today is a historic day for The Academy as we recognize 11 students who have completed their ESL journeys, graduating from all six levels of the program,” said Ligia Urrego, director of The Academy. “Many began their studies with The Academy when it first opened in the summer of 2022. All our ESL students, many of whom work multiple jobs, have demonstrated incredible dedication, coming each Saturday morning for four hours during multiple 12-week course semesters. Today represents extraordinary effort and achievement by each Academy student, and we are so proud of them.”

Following the entrance of the graduates, with the group of 11 donning blue caps and gowns, all participated in the opening hymn “Great Is Thy Faithfulness,” led by soloist Camille Skye and organist Scott Scheetz.

The Storehouse CEO Candace Winslow opened with thanksgiving, prayer, and recognition of St. Andrew for utilization of the beautiful space and encouragement of the work of The Storehouse as well as the many donors whose generosity “propels our mission.” She continued by recognizing the staff and volunteers, “the backbone of this program,” and Academy Director Ligia Urrego, “whose passionate leadership and heart for others are paramount to this program’s success.”

“To our volunteer teachers, without you we have no Academy,” added Winslow. “These volunteers give countless hours to make sure our neighbors are cared for in so many ways. Today we celebrate our neighbors and our Academy volunteers.”

Winslow also paid tribute to the late Dr. Linda K. Johnson, the president and CEO of Aspire who passed away in February. Aspire provides curriculum and support to The Academy’s ESL program.

The celebration included a video presentation of a group of the students each sharing one word, which resonated with all graduates, and remarks of what The Academy has meant to them on their journeys: family, wonder, love, affection, hope, and support. Through The Academy, students gain valuable experiences, friendships, and community at The Storehouse.

Following the presentation of certificates, volunteer teacher Jim Hess charged the graduates with words of encouragement.

“This last semester was my fourth time teaching, and I have never done anything more rewarding,” said Jim Hess. “Your dedication, commitment, and smiles every Saturday are so inspiring and make each volunteer excited to teach you. You have faced so many challenges beginning with leaving your home countries to provide a better life for your families. Living in Texas you could have gotten by without learning English, but you faced the challenge and are to be congratulated. We have accomplished so much, including improving your pronunciation, expanding your vocabulary, and mastering challenging English grammar rules, and we could not be prouder of you.”

Hess encouraged the students to “use it or lose it” and practice their English. “Pick a favorite movie, turn on subtitles and watch it over and over, take an easy course at Collin College in English, keep a journal in English and write a couple of sentences each night. Be proud of your accomplishments and come back and help us teach more students!”

Mario Lisena, one of the 11 graduates of all ESL levels and an employee of Storehouse job partner Hilti, where he has worked in the apprentice program since February, provided remarks on behalf of the students. A few highlights are below.

“Today we completed our goal. But the journey is not over. It was a long journey that for some began in May 2022,” said Lisena. “Everything in life requires effort. You cannot wait for God to do all the work, but each person must take on effort to obtain what they are wanting for. Knowledge will become our hope to survive and adapt in this country. Without it we are nothing, and we cannot be a part of the equation. As the Chinese proverb says, ‘Give me a fish, and we will eat today. Teach me how to fish, and we will eat the rest of our lives.’”

When Lisena was a child, his father took him on walks where they observed people manually sweeping the streets and cleaning up waste.

“My father told me that without studies, this would be my job and destiny,” continued Lisena. “This reminder always motivated me to complete my university studies and professional goals. But when I first came to this country, I had to carry out this same type of work against my father’s teachings. But we must always take advantage of opportunities that lie before us and not sit idly by. Maybe we should understand that God sends us to that place to serve. If He sees we are inactive, He will have no reason to use us and enhance our abilities. This motivated me to take the opportunities that The Storehouse offered me, thus managing to obtain a more relevant position. I invite you to follow this path. Thank you, Storehouse and job partners, Lux Ice and Hilti.”

Following special music, “You’ll Never Walk Alone,” by Skye and Scheetz, Storehouse board member and longtime volunteer teacher William Urrego directed the students to place their tassels on the left, “where your heart is, and remember your time here” and encouraged them to keep in touch with their Storehouse family as they begin this new chapter in their lives.

# # #

The Storehouse Community Center (formerly The Storehouse of Collin County), is a nonprofit founded in 2009 that provides short-term help and long-term transformation to residents in North Texas through a pathway of programs. Seven Loaves Food Pantry serves around 5,000 families each month; Joseph’s Coat Clothing Closet provides clothing at no cost; Project Hope Neighbor Care offers case management and resource referral; and The Academy Education Program provides free and reduced-cost classes to assist with language, job, and life skills development. During its previous fiscal year, The Storehouse served 149,064 unduplicated neighbors with the support of more than 2,000 volunteers. In August 2023, the North Texas Food Bank honored The Storehouse with the Hope for Tomorrow Award, and in September 2023, The Storehouse was named a Dallas Morning News Charity. Visit www.thestorehousecc.org. The Storehouse EIN: 27-1883333

 PHOTOS BY KIM LEESON

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
The Storehouse Announces Name Change Pictured at The Storehouse 15th Anniversary Celebration following the name change announcement: St. Andrew Sr. Pastor Arthur Jones, The Storehouse CEO Candace Winslow, longtime volunteer Nancy Kurkowski, who is the author of the new book We Are Your Neighbors-Stories from The Storehouse; Sharon Hasley, founder of The Storehouse; and The Storehouse Board Chair Michele Thatcher.

A beacon of hope for neighbors throughout North Texas, The Storehouse’s new name more accurately reflects the region served and the nonprofit’s direction for the future 

The Storehouse of Collin County announced that its name is changing to The Storehouse Community Center, effective immediately. The announcement was made on May 16 at the nonprofit’s 15th anniversary celebration.  During the last 15 years, The Storehouse has seen growth across a wider geographic area due to its strategic location at the intersection of Dallas, Collin, and Denton counties. The new name, The Storehouse Community Center, is a more accurate reflection of this unique hub where neighbors, regardless of zip code, may come for support, hope, and transformation.

At the time of its founding as the Seven Loaves food pantry in 2009, The Storehouse only served neighbors within a specific list of zip codes. Those restrictions were lifted in 2020 at the start of the pandemic, and since that time, the number of families throughout North Texas who seek assistance at The Storehouse has steadily increased. In 2023, 68% of those served at The Storehouse resided in the city of Dallas.

“While East, West, and South Dallas receive substantial support in the metroplex, we know from our neighbors that there is invisible poverty in North Dallas,” said Candace Winslow, CEO, The Storehouse Community Center. “This was demonstrated by a more than 400% increase in our service numbers from the start of the pandemic until today. It is our desire to be a champion for North Dallas—serving the neighbors and needs in this community deeply and transformationally.”

The Storehouse’s pathway of programs serves neighbors holistically and includes a food pantry, a clothing closet, a resource referral program, and an education program that offers job, language, and life skills training. This pathway culminates in a job partnership program connecting neighbors with stable, high-quality employment opportunities. Presently, The Storehouse serves around 5,000 families per month.

“Through our job partnerships, first Lux Ice, and more recently, Hilti, we are seeing our neighbors thrive on their individual pathways to transformation,” added Winslow. “Our integrated programs are designed to support them on their journeys from food insecurity to stable high-quality employment, and our vision is to change the life trajectories of 20% of the individuals we serve.”

“Our mission at The Storehouse is to feed, clothe, and care for our neighbors in one community,” added Winslow. “We will continue to adapt, change, and develop new programs based on the needs of our neighbors on their pathways to transformation. The Storehouse Community Center – a warm and safe hub for our neighbors from across the region to come together and feel loved and supported – reflects who we are today and who we want to be tomorrow.”

 

# # #

The Storehouse Community Center (formerly The Storehouse of Collin County), is a nonprofit founded in 2009 that provides short-term help and long-term transformation to residents in North Texas through a pathway of programs. Seven Loaves Food Pantry serves around 5,000 families each month; Joseph’s Coat Clothing Closet provides clothing at no cost; Project Hope Neighbor Care offers case management and resource referral; and The Academy Education Program provides free and reduced-cost classes to assist with language, job, and life skills development. During its previous fiscal year, The Storehouse served 149,064 unduplicated neighbors with the support of more than 2,000 volunteers. In August 2023, the North Texas Food Bank honored The Storehouse with the Hope for Tomorrow Award, and in September 2023, The Storehouse was named a Dallas Morning News Charity. Visit www.thestorehousecc.org. The Storehouse EIN: 27-1883333

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
The Storehouse 2024 Volunteer of the Year Kathy Jascott

Jascott, who has volunteered since 2009, was the guest of honor at the Storehouse’s 2024 volunteer appreciation event at Riders Field, where she threw out the first pitch before a Frisco RoughRiders game 

The Storehouse of Collin County has named longtime volunteer Kathy Jascott as the 2024 Volunteer of the Year for her dedicated service since 2009. Jascott, who has been a volunteer for The Storehouse since it first opened Joseph’s Coat Clothing Closet, has logged more than 1,069 volunteer hours*, sorting and organizing donated clothing and helping people find the clothing they need for themselves and their families – all at no cost. On April 28, Jascott was the guest of honor at The Storehouse’s 2024 Volunteer Appreciation Celebration at Riders Field, where she was invited to throw out the first pitch at the Frisco RoughRiders game.

“Volunteering with The Storehouse has given me a new purpose after retirement,” said Kathy Jascott. “The Storehouse team is like a second family to me, and it is an honor to be recognized as volunteer of the year. I tell others that volunteering at Joseph’s Coat makes you aware of the needs of other people, and you can make an impact on their lives beyond providing them with clothing. We often refer neighbors to other programs of The Storehouse for additional help, and if The Storehouse cannot provide what they need, they will refer them to others who can.”

The Storehouse’s four integrated programs – the Seven Loaves Food Pantry, Joseph’s Coat Clothing Closet, Project Hope Neighbor Care, and The Academy Education Program – work hand in hand to provide pathways toward transformation for the neighbors. As neighbors’ needs are identified in various programs, team members provide additional direction and assistance to help serve them holistically.

“Working closely with our neighbors leads to trust and a relationship with them, and they often open up to us about what is happening in their lives,” added Jascott. “One time we received a letter from a neighbor who had come to Joseph’s Coat in need of a coat, and we couldn’t find her size at first. She said in her letter that to most people she was invisible until she met us, and that really hit me. There are so many in need due to a variety of reasons, and we truly don’t realize that.”

Jascott expressed her amazement at the tremendous growth The Storehouse has seen since she first began volunteering. In the beginning, neighbors came to Joseph’s Coat and waited in a line to shop for clothing. In 2023, The Storehouse began serving neighbors by appointment three days a week. Today Joseph’s Coat distributes more than 7,500 articles of clothing to approximately 300 households per month. Neighbors may schedule appointments to shop for clothing once every two months.

“It has not only been exciting to see the changes within Joseph’s Coat, but also the addition of new programs at The Storehouse and how they all work together to best serve the neighbors,” added Jascott. “Years ago, I would have never imagined The Storehouse would have The Academy Education Program, which has led to job partnerships and employment for neighbors! Working together, we are building more community and helping our neighbors move toward long-term transformation.”

Today Jascott volunteers two to three times a week for about two to three hours at a time. She focuses much of her time on donated children’s clothing – one of the biggest needs in the clothing closet. The staff also refers to her as the children’s PJ queen because she is the best at locating and matching the pajama tops and bottoms, which she then pins together.

Originally from New Jersey, Jascott has lived in Texas for over 30 years. She and her husband Ron live in Plano and have a blended family with six children and 11 grandchildren, all of whom reside in Texas. She first learned about The Storehouse as a member of St. Andrew Methodist Church.

“When The Storehouse first began, I was just about ready to retire,” she said. “I worked in elementary education with children with special needs. “Volunteering at Joseph’s Coat is just what I do now, and I love it!”

Jascott shared that there are many incredible stories of serving neighbors in Joseph’s Coat.

“I can tell you that we witness miracles on a regular basis,” added Jascott. “Once a neighbor desperately needed some shoes in an unusual size. We couldn’t find anything, and then I saw in another area, a new pair in his size. And when we had that terrible ice storm a few years ago, a man came in who had no warm clothing. I happened to walk into another room and find a bag of sweatpants and other warm clothing – all in his size.  Once a woman came in who had many children. Her older daughter was getting married, and she had nothing to wear for her wedding. We just happened upon a mother-of-the-bride dress hanging on a rack and found matching shoes – all in her size. These types of miraculous and emotional stories happen over and over again!”

Jascott enjoys sharing with others how important it is to volunteer. “I know that volunteering is a commitment, but once you do it, it changes your life. And through working in Joseph’s Coat, as an added benefit, you will also soon have the most organized closet at home because you are so used to sorting!”

“I don’t know how we could begin to thank Kathy Jascott for her many years of service in Joseph’s Coat Clothing Closet at The Storehouse,” said Candace Winslow, CEO, The Storehouse. “She has been with us from the beginning, and she understands the impact that our integrated programs can have on our neighbors. She is a delight and a blessing to everyone she meets, and we are beyond grateful for her steadfast dedication to serving others. We congratulate Kathy, a beloved member of our Storehouse family, on this very special honor.”

To volunteer at The Storehouse, visit www.thestorehousecc.org/volunteer-sign-up.

# # # 

Jascott's recorded volunteer hours only date back to 2016. She has also volunteered many additional hours from 2009-2016.


The Storehouse of Collin County, a nonprofit founded in 2009, provides short-term assistance and long-term transformation to residents of Collin, Dallas, and Denton Counties through four programs. Seven Loaves Food Pantry serves 5,000 families each month; Joseph’s Coat Clothing Closet provides clothing at no cost; Project Hope Neighbor Care offers case management and resource referral; and The Academy Education Program provides free and reduced-cost classes to assist with language, job, or life skills development. During its previous fiscal year, The Storehouse served 146,922 unduplicated neighbors with the support of more than 2,000 volunteers. In August 2023, the North Texas Food Bank honored The Storehouse with the Hope for Tomorrow Award. Visit www.thestorehousecc.org. The Storehouse EIN: 27-1883333

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
The Storehouse of Collin County The new Storehouse sprinter van provided through the North Texas Food Bank Capacity Building Grant - pictured are Noah Ziegelbein (left) and Josh Stevens, director, Seven Loaves Food Pantry (right)

Providing a new sprinter van; assets such as tents, tables, carts, and cones; and support of The Academy, NTFB grants equip nonprofit to accommodate growth while addressing underlying barriers to food security 

The Storehouse of Collin County is celebrating the addition of a new sprinter van as well as new operational assets, including tents, carts, and cones for utilization during food distribution – all provided as part of a fiscal year 2023 Capacity Building Grant from the North Texas Food Bank (NTFB).

“The North Texas Food Bank has been our faithful partner for 15 years, helping us to meet a 450% increase in the demand for food over the last two years,” said Candace Winslow, CEO, The Storehouse of Collin County. “Serving around 5,000 households monthly with 80+ pounds of food is only possible because of our ongoing partnership. This Capacity Building Grant has allowed us to drive incremental growth regarding pounds of food as we enhance our efficiency as well as safety procedures for neighbors, volunteers, and staff.”

Wrapped and ready to roll, the new van will allow for an increase in retail food program pickups. Another benefit of the van is its use in off-site food distribution activities such as the nonprofit’s monthly delivery and on-location service of Evergreen Arbor Hills Senior Living facility. Operational assets also provided through the grant included six new tents, 30 traffic cones, eight carts, 10 stanchions, 12 vinyl rolling bins, three portable radios, and six plastic folding tables.

During the same fiscal year, The Storehouse also received a NTFB Hope for Tomorrow Grant, supporting The Academy education program and its expansion of neighbor language, job, and life skills training.

“The Academy education program first began in 2022 with 40 neighbors enrolled in our ESL program, and this semester, we are proud to welcome 198 neighbors into the program,” said Ligia Urrego, director, The Academy. “It is hard to believe that a program that started only two years ago has been able to accommodate such tremendous growth! We are grateful for NTFB’s support of The Academy through the Hope for Tomorrow Grant, which has allowed us to lean into this growth and holistically serve our neighbors.”

Through The Academy, The Storehouse fosters relationships with neighbors and connects them with education and services that lead to long-term change. In addition to the ESL classes, The Academy offers education in health management, computers, automotive certification, and more.

“The NTFB continues to be a critical part of our growth journey through ongoing support and pivotal grants as we adapt and expand to meet the needs of our community through our integrated programs,” continued Winslow. “We look forward to our continued partnership for years to come as we work to provide nutritious food to our neighbors with the highest levels of love, care, and compassion.”

# # # 

The Storehouse of Collin County, a nonprofit founded in 2009, provides short-term assistance and long-term transformation to residents of Collin, Dallas, and Denton Counties through four programs. Seven Loaves Food Pantry serves 5,000 families each month; Joseph’s Coat Clothing Closet provides clothing at no cost; Project Hope Neighbor Care offers case management and resource referral; and The Academy Education Program provides free and reduced-cost classes to assist with language, job, or life skills development. During its previous fiscal year, The Storehouse served 146,922 unduplicated neighbors with the support of more than 2,000 volunteers. In August 2023, the North Texas Food Bank honored The Storehouse with the Hope for Tomorrow Award. Visit www.thestorehousecc.org. The Storehouse EIN: 27-1883333

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
Nancy Mendez, Director of Project Hope Project Hope is an empowerment-based program of case management for needs beyond food and clothing.

As Mendez transitions from case manager to director, her focus will include developing more community resources as well as providing additional support to neighbors within The Academy and job partnerships

Nancy Mendez has been named the new director of Project Hope, a program of The Storehouse of Collin County which specializes in neighbor care. Mendez first came to The Storehouse in May of 2021 as the Project Hope coordinator to assist with assessing the needs of the neighbors, establishing relationships with them, and helping determine future program goals. She immediately began her training to be certified as a community health worker and became case manager for Project Hope in 2023.

“I fell in love with the mission of the Storehouse,” said Nancy Mendez. “Being a part of the transformation and change for the neighbors – what we call those we serve – and seeing their improvement, reinforced within my heart that this is all for a purpose and exactly where I want to use my gifts and talents.”

No stranger to transformation, Mendez came to the Dallas area 17 years ago from Mexico with a degree in child development. She soon became involved with Dallas Christian Women’s Job Corps (DCWJC), where she went through an eight-week program learning career development, resume writing and more. For three years she worked as a ministry assistant, engaging with DCWJC participants and assisting with the development of their goals, which proved to be a rewarding experience.

“At DCWJC I received wonderful training,” added Mendez. “I began taking some administrative courses at community college and soon heard about the position at The Storehouse for Project Hope coordinator.  At The Storehouse I quickly learned the complexity of serving those in need and the importance of meeting each neighbor’s physical needs before focusing on education and future transformation.”

Project Hope is an empowerment-based program of case management for needs beyond food and clothing. Through a network of community partners, Project Hope connects neighbors with resources that offer further stability including affordable medical care, mental health care, household furnishings and more. This program is positioned to walk alongside neighbors who are ready for the next step toward transformation with personalized support toward their goals. A Community Resource Guide (CRG) is provided online and to all neighbors who first meet The Storehouse in the food line. The CRG directs neighbors to resources for additional needs, such as new beds from Dallas Furniture Bank. Project Hope also partners with Methodist Dallas Medical Center, which brings its mobile mammography services to The Storehouse’s campus three times a year. Project Hope is always looking for more resources for neighbors not only for physical needs but also for professional services such as medical and dental. In 2024, the program is partnering with The Storehouse’s Academy education program and will focus on providing additional assessments and support of the neighbors enrolled in classes as well as employed by job partners.

“I have learned so much about critical thinking and the importance of understanding the needs of our neighbors through assessments,” added Mendez. “Integrating with The Academy and the students participating in our educational program will build upon our current neighbor relationships and allow us to better assess and evaluate needs. The neighbors participating in these programs are working hard and have demonstrated their commitment to their future success. I will also be meeting with each neighbor employed by our job partners to do an assessment of their needs, goals, and strengths as well as follow up to evaluate outcomes.”

“Project Hope is a program that has gone through many changes over the years,” added Candace Winslow, CEO, The Storehouse of Collin County. “We are excited about the changes we are implementing in 2024 that include a concentrated focus on service to our neighbors within The Academy and our job partnerships. By getting to know our neighbors well through assessment and ongoing conversations, we can tailor our support to address the root causes instead of simply putting a Band-Aid on what could be a recurring need. Working closely with neighbors in our Academy and employed by our job partners is a perfect way to ensure successful outcomes.  We are thrilled to have Nancy take the wheel in this new endeavor. Her experience, her heart to serve, and her own transformation are a powerful recipe for success, and we look forward to seeing our neighbors thrive and achieve their goals under her leadership.”

Mendez and her husband Rod reside in Plano with their three children: Kevin, 16, David, 12, and Eliana, 10. The family enjoys serving in their church, and their oldest son enjoys volunteering as a cart runner at The Storehouse’s Seven Loaves food pantry, where he utilizes his Spanish while serving the neighbors.

“I am very grateful The Storehouse has placed me in this position where I can empower our neighbors to self-advocate while teaching them how to access our resources as well as community resources,” added Mendez. “It’s exciting to see how Project Hope has evolved, from helping only women to whole families. The changes being implemented this year are going to help our neighbors overcome the many barriers in their lives and place them on paths to self-sufficiency and long-term transformation. It is an honor to be a part of their journeys.”

# # #

The Storehouse of Collin County, a nonprofit founded in 2009, provides short-term assistance and long-term transformation to residents of Collin, Dallas, and Denton Counties through four programs. Seven Loaves Food Pantry serves over 5,000 families each month; Joseph’s Coat Clothing Closet provides clothing at no cost; Project Hope Neighbor Care offers case management and resource referral; and The Academy Education Program provides free and reduced-cost classes to assist with language, job, or life skills development. During its previous fiscal year, The Storehouse served 146,922 unduplicated neighbors with the support of more than 2,000 volunteers. In August 2023, the North Texas Food Bank honored The Storehouse with the Hope for Tomorrow Award. Visit www.thestorehousecc.org. The Storehouse EIN: 27-1883333