Press Release from SWTC
10/3/24
UVALDE, TEXAS
The Title V VIDA Project (Vision, Identity, Diversity, and Advocacy), in partnership with the San Antonio Food Bank, is excited to announce a new collaboration aimed at eliminating barriers and providing critical resources to students. This initiative, which will bring food and essential services to the campus community, is an important step toward creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for all.
The partnership aligns with the core mission of the VIDA Resource Centers (VRC), which focuses on promoting a sense of belonging and fostering the social, emotional, and academic well-being of all students, especially those from underserved backgrounds. Through this collaboration, students will have access to a variety of wraparound services, including:
- Food and Nutrition Assistance: Through regular food distribution events, students facing food insecurity will receive fresh produce, pantry staples, and other essential items.
- Basic Needs Support: Students will have access to personal care products, hygiene items, and other necessities to alleviate the burdens that often impact academic success.
- Emergency Aid: Financial assistance will be available to help students navigate unexpected challenges and emergencies.
By partnering with the San Antonio Food Bank, the VIDA Project is working to eliminate some of the most pressing barriers to student success. Food insecurity and lack of access to basic needs are significant obstacles for many students, affecting their academic performance and overall well-being. This collaboration will provide much-needed resources and reinforce the VIDA Project’s commitment to inclusivity, diversity, and access for all.
To celebrate this exciting partnership the SWTX Cowboy Pantry hosted the first-ever SWTX Farmer’s Mercado on Sept. 23 at the Uvalde Campus. Following the success of the inaugural event, the pantry is pleased to announce a series of upcoming Farmer’s Mercados, which will take place on the following dates: October 7, October 21, November 4, November 18, and December 2. The SWTX Uvalde Campus community is invited to attend these events. Please note that a valid SWTX ID is required for entry, and all attendees must complete a San Antonio Food Bank application upon arrival. FARMER’S MERCADO PHOTOS
About the Title V VIDA Project
The Title V VIDA Project is a federally funded initiative focused on promoting Vision, Identity, Diversity, and Advocacy in higher education. Through its VIDA Resource Centers, the project offers wraparound services such as mental health counseling, mentoring programs, advocacy, and outreach services. The goal of the VIDA Project is to foster a sense of belonging and create an inclusive environment where all students can thrive, regardless of their background or circumstances.
About the San Antonio Food Bank
The San Antonio Food Bank is a nonprofit organization dedicated to fighting hunger in Southwest Texas. Serving over 90,000 individuals a week, the Food Bank provides food, emergency aid, and other essential resources to help individuals and families in need. With a mission to end hunger and nourish lives, the Food Bank partners with organizations across the region to make a meaningful difference in the community.
For more information about the partnership and upcoming food distribution events, please visit or contact:
Xaviera Haynes
Title V VIDA Project Director
Vannesa Gutierrez
Title V VIDA Grant Coordinator
Teresa Crow
Title V VIDA Resource Coordinator
This partnership marks a significant step forward in addressing food insecurity and ensuring that students have the resources they need to succeed in both their academic and personal lives. Through ongoing efforts, the Title V VIDA Project and the San Antonio Food Bank are committed to building a brighter, more inclusive future for the entire campus community.
About Southwest Texas College
Southwest Texas College is a regional, “open door” institution serving an 11-county area that stretches from the Texas Hill Country to the US-Mexican border. Since 1946 SWTX has provided accessible, affordable, high-quality education that prepares students to successfully transfer to senior colleges and universities; enter the job market; pursue their professional and personal goals; and contribute to the economic growth of the region. The company’s mission is to enrich lives and advance growth through the education of our diverse communities.
To learn more about SWTX, visit swtjc.edu. For more information on this story, contact Ismael Martinez, SWTX Social Media/Public Relations Specialist, at 830-591-2942 or imartinez@swtjc.edu.
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