On March 27, the Lewisville Area Chamber of Commerce and Communities In Schools of North Texas (CISNT) held a contact free, drive-through resource fair, benefitting more than 2,000 individuals from 450+ families. The recent winter storms, on top of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, have posed numerous challenges for families in North Texas over the past year, from financial difficulties and job loss to the mental health challenges of being isolated from strong systems of support.
“With the current pandemic and the ice storm in February, families in Lewisville were already stretching their resources as far as they could go,” says Ann Pape Wilson, Chief Executive Officer at CISNT. “Many are currently experiencing food insecurity and have needs for basic household items such as food, water, and infant care supplies.”
To address these challenges and provide much-needed relief and resources to community members, Communities In Schools of North
Texas teamed up with the Lewisville Area Chamber of Commerce to organize the resource fair for Lewisville families. Together, CISNT and the Lewisville Area Chamber of Commerce were able to distribute 44,000 pounds of food, including fresh produce, meat, dairy products, and key dietary staples to more than 450 families. Families were also offered water, infant care supplies, and other critical resources, such as information regarding COVID-19 vaccinations and general healthcare.
Communities In Schools of NorthTexas is a local nonprofit that works directly inside 47 schools across Denton and Wise Counties to connect students to caring adults and community resources that help them overcome barriers to success in school. The Lewisville Area Chamber of Commerce partners with business, civic, and educational leaders to uplift the economy, education system, and neighborhoods of Denton County through networking and outreach.
CISNT is a longtime member of the Lewisville Area Chamber of Commerce, so for Ann Pape Wilson, the collaborative effort came easily. “In the midst of a crisis, there is always opportunity for creative solutions,” says Mrs. Pape Wilson. “We knew that with enough help, we could comply with CDC guidelines and still be able to get families the resources they need.”
To accomplish this event, CISNT worked closely with the Lewisville Chamber Chairman, Fred Whitfield. “It was just a natural partnership,” says Mrs. Pape Wilson. “Fred is such a passionate leader. Working with him on this project was fantastic. If you know Fred, you know that he knows everyone!”
Whitfield extended his gratitude to community partners that helped make the resource fair a huge success. “Thanks to our partners and many volunteers who shared their time to serve the community,” said Whitfield.
It is a cornerstone of CISNT’s work that success is achieved through a strong Community of Support. CISNT expresses sincere appreciation for the Community of Support that made this resource fair possible, including 19 local organizations and many community volunteers. For a full list of partners involved in the event, please visit: https://cisnt.org/lewisvilleresourcefair/.
Communities In Schools of North Texas ensures every student has what they need to realize their potential in school and beyond. CISNT offers multiple ways for community members to get involved, including events, volunteer opportunities, and job opportunities. Visit www.cisnt.org for more information.
The Lewisville Area Chamber of Commerce offers valuable information for prospecting business owners, as well as support and networking opportunities for area business. Visit www.lewisvillechamber.org to explore these resources and ways to get involved.
