Houston businesses host food and relief drive for families still impacted by COVID and winter storm

A group of local business owners is teaming up to provide some immediate relief to those who are still suffering from the winter storm and the financial burdens caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Booker T. Washington alumni, Dr. Lakeisha Menifee, owner of “Stem Up With Dr. KiKi,” LaZena Barrett, owner of “The Plug Organization” and Lloyd Lindley Jr. of the L.A.M.P. (Living A Meaningful Purpose) linked up with the Booker T. Washington High School Alumni Group Eagles Prevail and the New Spirit of life Missionary Baptist Church, alongside Pastor C.W. Gaines to spearhead the much-needed food and relief drive in an effort to reach those who are often overlooked in the Acres Homes community.

“Independence Heights and Acres Home are often overlooked despite the fact that most families and individuals do not have access to the resources they need to maintain their dignity while experiencing hardships,” said Dr. KiKi. “There is a need to build sustainable communities on the Northside of Houston and we want to do our part to raise awareness of community needs.”

The event is being sponsored by the Houston Food Bank and the Office of State Representative Jarvis Johnson and Nico Mathews of M&M Consulting Strategies.

Those in need will be provided with PPE and other safety supplies, hot meals, care packs, cases of water and other resources.

“Families and individuals were not prepared to weather the storm. We must take responsibility because there is an urgent need to support families and individuals who were affected,” said Lindley.

The event will be held Thursday, March 11 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the New Spirit of Life Missionary Baptist Church.