SAN ANTONIO — The San Antonio Food Bank has expanded its volunteer center to better serve the thousands of people who support its operations each week.
The food bank, the largest volunteer hub in the region, hosts about 2,000 volunteers weekly who help sort and pack food, prepare meals, and maintain multiple urban farms. Officials said the expansion is designed to improve the experience and efficiency for participants.
Director of Volunteer Services Elizabeth Johanek said the upgrades aim to create a smoother and more welcoming environment. “We are taking that very seriously and giving them a really better flow into the food bank for ease and for welcoming,” Johanek said. “Just to give them a really nice experience and thank them for donating their most precious resource, which is their time.”
The expansion includes a new lobby, a mission briefing room for volunteers, updated technology, and an enclosed warehouse space to enhance safety.
Among those supporting daily operations are members of the food bank’s Apple Corps volunteer leadership group, who mentor and assist others. Janay Baptiste, one of roughly 80,000 annual volunteers, said her work is driven by gratitude. “If I can help someone else, absolutely, I’m there,” she said. “Because that’s a part of my gratitude repayment.”
Food insecurity remains a major concern in the area. According to a 2025 report, about 300,000 residents in Bexar County rely on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. Johanek said the organization is prepared to respond to fluctuations in need, including potential government shutdowns or policy changes.
Founded in 1980, the San Antonio Food Bank provides assistance to more than 140,000 families each week across 29 counties.