“When a mom says she has to decide between formula and diapers, oh no, that should never happen. In our community, that should never happen. It’s not going to happen,” said Darla Shirley of Youth World.
DUNCANVILLE, Texas — The joy on the kids' faces when Carla Gonzalez visits Youth World is priceless.
“From day one, the kids have loved coming here,” said Gonzalez, a Red Oak resident.
Youth World is a South Dallas nonprofit that provides financial assistance and meals to families like the Gonzalez family.
“They get to learn more about Jesus. They get help with their homework. They get free meals,” Gonzalez said.
These resources are needed for families, she said.
“We are not all going to have a good life after the pandemic,” Gonzalez said. “We had some conflicts. Yeah.”
While Gonzalez has difficulty explaining the details, Youth World founder and executive director Darla Shirley said it's an experience shared with others in the community.
“The fact that one in four children is food insecure is a great way to say, 'You might not have dinner tonight,'” Shirley says.
Friday was special as Youth World partnered with disaster relief organization Mercy Chefs to open a community kitchen, preparing meals for families.
Chef Gary LeBlanc, Founder and CEO of Mercy Chefs, said: “We've installed this gorgeous kitchen that will allow us to create thousands of hot dishes.” . “This is part of our dedication to providing the highest quality, most nutritious meals available under any circumstances.”
In 2014 and last July, Youth World provided more than 2,000 meals per week to families. Now that the equipment is in place and the kitchen is new, he is able to do more.
“When a mom says she has to decide between formula and diapers, oh no, that should never happen. In our community, that should never happen. ,” Shirley said.
Gonzalez, who is currently volunteering with the program, said it has changed her life.
“My children have changed a lot. They love coming to kids club. At school they will say they have gotten better grades because they know they come here, so they do well in school. We have to,” Gonzalez said. “I’m really grateful to Youth World…I’m so grateful.”
Youth World is a free program for children. Click here for more information.
