Fiesta for a Purpose: Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels to Host 17th Annual Cinco de Mayo Celebration
In Richmond, the vibrant sounds of mariachi music and the enticing smell of Tex-Mex cuisine will be more than just a cultural celebration on Saturday, May 4th. La Cocina Mexican Restaurant and Catering is set to host its 17th annual Cinco de Mayo fundraiser, expected to receive nearly 300 devoted attendees, all united in their mission to stand in support of Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels (FBS).
This architect of this charitable gala is restaurateur Andres Novoa, who in 2005 was moved by the critical work of FBS in feeding local seniors. Outraged by the increasing numbers of seniors struggling with food insecurity, Novoa launched one of the longest-running fundraisers in Fort Bend, which until today, has raised a substantial total exceeding $500,000.
"You feel the sting of inflation impacting everyone, but it is especially difficult for seniors who already struggle with limited resources and support," Novoa passionately expressed. He added that the fundraiser is a testament to the community spirit in Fort Bend County and a reflection of local volunteers' efforts and generosity, without which the event could not succeed.
Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels plays a pivotal role in the community, providing hot, home-delivered meals to approximately 1,300 seniors daily. Much of this population lives alone and can't prepare their meals. The valued organization is predicted to serve an impressive 422,000 meals in 2023, completely free of charge for seniors aged 60 and above. These meals reach homebound seniors and attendees of their eight senior centers, where FBS also offers transport, case management, fitness, and recreational activities.
Bob Hebert, the Executive Director at FBS, iterates that their mission is ongoing despite the growing need, stating, "hunger never takes a holiday." He expresses his gratitude for the generosity of local businesses like La Cocina and the community at large, whose support ensures the continuation of FBS's critical services.
The Cinco de Mayo fundraiser will feature live music, a live auction, raffles, and enticing drink specials. While the fundraiser takes place in Richmond, the accumulated donations and proceeds will serve seniors across Fort Bend and Waller counties.
Community members are invited to join the celebration, purchase tickets, sponsor VIP tables, or make direct contributions if they cannot attend. To purchase a ticket, please contact Andres Novoa at 281-460-6479 or Becky Watts at 281-233-7057, or purchase online at bit.ly/cinco2024. All donations made directly to Fort Bend Seniors are tax-deductible, further incentivizing contributions towards this worthy cause.
By Tiffany Krenek, My Neighborhood News 
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Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region. |
