PLANO (1080 KRLD) - The North Texas Food Bank is getting a helping hand ... from the Texas National Guard.
Guard members arrived in Plano over the weekend, and today they've started delivering food to North Texans who need it most.
"These people are doing it from their own accord," said Steve Stoler with the City of Plano. "They're giving up all the time that they would spend with their families. They're deeply invested in keeping their fellow Texans safe."
The volunteers will stay in Plano for 30 days, working on the production line, as well as in pantry distribution. Some volunteers will be working in the warehouse, and others will assist the food bank's partner agencies.
"So 250 people coming to North Texas to help distribute food ... is not only greatly appreciated, but it's certainly needed to get the food out to the people who need it the most during this time of crisis," Stoler said.
Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins says extra help is necessary. He's encouraging people to donate to the NTFB's virtual food drive-- Neighbors Helping Neighbors.
"This will help us because we're running out of food for these hungry families," Jenkins said. "Don't go to the grocery stores and buy what you think they need ... please give online and let us buy at bulk rates what we know they need."
Donations to the virtual drive can be made online at dallascountyvocid.org.