Cuidando Lo Nuestro is a weekly community spotlight presented in partnership with United Way of Laredo, highlighting local service, volunteer efforts and resources for families.
Zach Davis/Laredo Morning Times
Peggy M. Duncan, United Way of Laredo Executive Director
Courtesy/United Way of Laredo
September is Hunger Action Awareness Month, and I’d like to recognize several United Way partner agencies that help combat hunger in our community. From serving hot meals to seniors, to providing food assistance for students and families, these organizations make a meaningful difference every day.
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Founded by Father Charles McNaboe, Bethany House is dedicated to feeding those in need and sheltering individuals experiencing homelessness. Located at 817 Hidalgo Street, it serves meals daily from 8–9 a.m., noon–1 p.m., and 5–6 p.m. The organization also delivers meals to elderly and homebound residents Monday through Friday.
Since opening in Laredo in 1921, The Salvation Army has provided meals, emergency food assistance, holiday support, disaster relief services, and more. Located at 408 Matamoros Street, it offers free lunch Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to noon. Appointments are required for most additional services, including emergency food basket distribution.
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Communities In Schools of Laredo (CIS)
For more than 35 years, CIS has supported economically disadvantaged students across Webb, Zapata, and Jim Hogg counties. Through site coordinators placed in 25 partner schools, CIS helps students succeed academically while addressing attendance, social, and emotional needs. The organization also assists with essentials such as food, clothing, school supplies, hygiene products, and counseling. One impactful program provides weekend food backpacks for students facing food insecurity at home.
Catholic Charities – Diocese of Laredo
Serving seven counties, Catholic Charities supports low-income adults, seniors, and families through emergency assistance, homelessness prevention programs, and food pantry services that help strengthen family stability.
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South Texas Food Bank (STFB)
The South Texas Food Bank serves eight counties across South Texas, providing nutritious food and resources through community partnerships and a network of local agencies. STFB is the region’s only member of Feeding America, Feeding Texas, and United Way of Laredo.
Each September, Feeding America’s Hunger Action Month raises awareness about food insecurity and encourages individuals to take action. According to the 2026 Map the Meal Gap study, 47.9 million Americans, including 14 million children, experienced food insecurity in 2024. Access to nutritious food helps families meet other essential needs such as housing, transportation, utilities, and healthcare.
STFB works alongside donors, volunteers, businesses, and community organizations to address hunger throughout South Texas. As STFB leadership reminds us, ending hunger requires a collective effort, and everyone can play a role through volunteering, donating, advocacy, or community partnerships.
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Special thanks to Daniel Garza, Marketing Specialist at STFB, for sharing information about the organization’s programs and services. Volunteers are always welcome to help prepare food distributions. For more information, contact STFB at 956-726-3120 or Elizabeth Luna at United Way at 956-723-9113.
Mark your calendars
Laredo Stroke Support – Monthly Support Meeting
Stroke survivors, caregivers, and families are invited to gather for support, resources, and guest presentations. The next meeting will be held September 14 at 6 p.m. at San Martin de Porres Church. More information is available at www.laredostrokesupport.org, by email at knowstroke956@gmail.com, or by calling 956-775-5774.
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Area Health Education Center (AHEC): Every Cancer, Every Story
AHEC will host a virtual Prostate Cancer Awareness presentation by UT Health Mays Cancer Center on September 17 from 11 a.m. to noon via Zoom. For details, call 956-712-0037.
Catholic Charities – Diocese of Laredo: People of Hope Museum
This traveling exhibit highlights stories of neighbors helping neighbors through Catholic Charities agencies nationwide. It will be open September 17 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Saint Patrick Church. Admission is free.
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Ruthe B. Cowl Rehabilitation Center – Children’s Orthopedic Clinic
The monthly clinic will be held September 17. No referral or insurance is required. Appointments are necessary, and a $15 processing fee applies. Call 956-722-2431 to schedule.
Laredo Chamber of Commerce: Strengthening Nonprofit Leadership & Governance
A seminar featuring keynote speaker Bobby Harris, CAE, will take place September 18 from 8 a.m. to noon at the IBC Annex Ballroom. For information, contact Monica Martinez at 956-722-9895.
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Laredo Main Street Farmers Market
The next market will be held September 19 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at The Outlet Shoppes at Laredo. Visitors can enjoy local vendors, seasonal activities, workshops, and entertainment. Email lmsevents01@gmail.com for details.
Imaginarium of South Texas – H-E-B Free Family Fun Night
Families are invited to enjoy free admission on September 25 from 6–9 p.m. at the Imaginarium on the Laredo College main campus. For more information, call 956-728-0404.
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Junior Achievement Bowl-A-Thon
Junior Achievement’s Citywide Bowl-A-Thon will be held October 24, 2026, at Jett Bowl North. Team pledges of $250 include bowling, shoe rental, pizza, drinks, prizes, and awards. Available shifts are noon, 3 p.m., and 6 p.m. For more information, contact Oralia Bernal at obernal@jast.org or 956-725-3464.
If you would like to share information about an upcoming community event or a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, please email 956cuidandolonuestro@gmail.com.
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