Nearly two years ago, HCCM embarked on a capital campaign to raise $5.5 million to build a future facility on Lacy Drive in Leander, TX. Very quickly, we paused events for this purpose only because we had land that was going to be donated, and a foundation that would have built a resource center for us. This would have saved us millions, and we would not have had to find a temporary location for the food pantry.
Fast forward to May of 2024, the foundation pulled out. It was nothing serious or bad, it just was. Though, while others were pretty devastated, I simply paused and said, "This only means God's got bigger and better plans for us." Through the time of pause, HCCM celebrated its 40th birthday. HCCM had several very successful events, which increased the number of donors by over 200 individuals. And HCCM received a beautiful gift, a $1 million endowment.
What now? During the July Board retreat, our Board of Directors was presented with four options. First, do we still move forward with the gifted land? Second, do we purchase new, more land to expand? Third, do we move forward with building on Lacy Drive (which was the original plan)? Lastly, do we find an existing building, build it out, and move the food pantry? If we move the food pantry, this would allow us to keep the current land on Lacy Drive and provide transitional housing for our families who need a temporary space to stay. The Board approved option #4.
That being said, HCCM was pre-approved to purchase up to a $5 million property, which would be approximately 14,000 – 15,000 square feet. Let the fun begin!
THOUGH, WHAT IF?? What if we were to purchase an $8 MILLION property, 30,000 square feet, and create a non-profit mall? HCCM and the owners of this amazing property have accepted terms of a Letter of Intent (LOI). I have been working diligently the past couple of years with non-profits and social services to know that this is soooo desperately needed in our community.
When a family comes to HCCM to receive food, they are always in need of other services. It is very humbling to ask for help. Yet, I have to send these families elsewhere, typically on the other side of the county, to receive the additional support they need. Who wants to tell their story over and over again? Who wants to use their last tank of gas to drive 20-30 miles? So, sadly, we lose them.
Our capital campaign has now increased to $8 MILLION, and to make this non-profit mall happen, HCCM has 90 days to raise $3 MILLION. Someone said to me the other day, "I don't know how you are going to make this happen." And my response was, "I am not. Only our God can make this happen... with the support of our community." This is BIG picture and can help SO MANY of our families, children, seniors, veterans... so many!
As we prepare to serve over 140,000 people this year... we only GET to do what we do because of YOU! Thank you, HCCM Fans! We love you! We appreciate YOU!
If you have any questions, you can reach out to me directly at [email protected] or call me at 512-259-0360, ext. 204.
