Fort Bend Seniors Receives Generous Gift from Local Mexican Restaurant
In a remarkable achievement, La Cocina Mexican Restaurant and Catering proudly presented a check for a record-breaking $78,000 to Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels. These funds were the result of the restaurant's annual Cinco de Mayo fundraiser, a tradition that has been supporting Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels for 16 years. Over the course of its existence, this enduring event has collectively raised an astounding total of over $500,000.
Andres Novoa, the owner of La Cocina Mexican Restaurant, discovered Fort Bend Seniors' mission to provide nourishment to local seniors in 2005. Recognizing the financial and nutritional challenges faced by elderly residents in the community, he initiated one of the region's most enduring fundraising events in support of Fort Bend Seniors.
“The challenges of the last few years, marked by weather events, pandemics, and inflation, have taken a toll on everyone. Seniors have been particularly vulnerable, fearing for their health and financial stability. This burden is especially heavy for those seniors who were already struggling with limited resources and support, said Owner Andres Novoa. He expressed his gratitude for the resilient spirit of the community amidst these trying times. He stated, "We're truly fortunate to live and work in a county with such remarkable organizations, like Fort Bend Seniors, and a community filled with incredibly generous people and volunteers who have been instrumental in the success of this event over the years."
He went on to share La Cocina's excitement in hosting the next Cinco de Mayo Fundraiser on May 4, 2024, emphasizing the opportunity for the community to come together, have a great time, and play a vital role in crushing hunger among the senior population in Fort Bend County.
Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels plays a vital role by delivering hot meals to nearly 1,300 senior citizens daily, including many who live alone and cannot prepare their own meals. In 2023, the organization is projected to serve over 400,000 meals to homebound seniors and attendees of the eight senior centers they operate. Beyond meal delivery, Fort Bend Seniors provides transportation to and from the centers, fitness classes, recreational activities, case management, emergency meals, and more, all at no cost to local seniors, 60 years and older.
Doug Simpson, FBS new Executive Director remarked, “Andres' remarkable dedication and unwavering commitment over the past 16 years have been nothing short of inspiring. Through his tireless efforts, he has not only elevated this event but also raised over half a million dollars, proving that one person can indeed make a profound and lasting difference in our community."
Source: FBS
