Celebrating MLK Day with Food Drives in Austin
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Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: ‘What are you doing for others?”-Martin Luther King Jr.
Martin Luther King Jr. was the leader of the African American civil rights movement in the 1960s and is widely remembered for his tireless work advocating for equality and justice. He coined the phrase ‘beloved community,’ meaning a society based on justice, equal opportunity and love. Although he faced tremendous adversity, MLK went on to lead successful boycotts and marches resulting in federal legislation like the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibiting discrimination and disenfranchisement in America. His efforts continued with many campaigns to end poverty, racism, and inequality, ultimately earning him a Nobel Prize Peace Award in 1964.
The positive power of civil rights activist, Martin Luther King Jr’s words still reverberates through society today and every January we take a moment to celebrate him across the nation. By engaging with his legacy we are able to honor his message, recommit ourselves to MLK’s causes and strive for social justice for all Americans.
With the state holiday, MLK Day Texas falling on January 16 this year, Austin is gearing up to mark the federal holiday with food drives, competitions, family activities, and more.
Texans are looking forward to the Community Festival and Food Drive Festival organized by the Austin Area Heritage Council. The fete will be held at the Huston-Tillotson University campus on the day at 11:15am up until 3:30pm.
The festival's purpose is to celebrate Dr King's legacy while highlighting diversity and multiculturalism in Austin through several vendors, local musicians, vibrant speakers, and Your Food Truck Festival Favorites.
Support the Central Texas Food Bank on MLK Day
To ensure the message of Martin Luther King is not only reflected by words but also by actions, the MLK Community Festival and Food Drive is inviting you to donate goods or non-perishable food items. These goods will go to the Central Texas Food Bank.
Making a change in the world, especially during this time of immense need, starts with all of us coming together to do our part. You can come together with your community to make an even greater impact for those in need by supporting and donating to the Central Texas Food Bank.
Donation receptacles will be provided at The University of Texas and the Capitol during the march as well as at the festival at Huston-Tillotson University. Every donation makes a larger difference; it helps fill shelves and support those who are relying on meals from food banks.
As Dr. Martin Luther King Jr said “True compassion is more than flinging a coin to a beggar; it is not haphazard and superficial” - let’s come together in true compassion this time and begin making positive changes that will last long into the future.
Guidelines when considering what to donate:
Supporting the Central Texas Food Bank is a great way to give back to your community in a time of need. Everyone should be afforded the opportunity to have access to wholesome, nutritious food, and with our support, the Food Bank can provide that to thousands of families in the area.
Choose non-perishable items like canned fruits, vegetables, beans and soups or high-protein foods such as peanut butter (how long does peanut butter last?) and tuna. Also, consider seasonal fresh produce when it’s offered - it will make an especially big impact on communities with those who face hunger during tough times.
Donations don't need to be sizable - even something small can make a difference! Whether you purchase items or volunteer your time or donate funds directly to the organization – it all helps support our mission!
Further Information:
Capitol Metro Bus Service
Capital Metro is making it easy and convenient for Texans to join in the celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King’s legacy. The transit service is offering free passes so that you can get more time to enjoy the commemorative events in the area without having to worry about parking. All you have to do is click on their online registration form and follow the instructions provided.
They also have trip planning resources available on their website http://www.capmetro.org/planner/ or you can simply call their Go-Line at 512-474-1200 for additional information about routes and schedules - making it easier than ever to get around quickly while participating in the celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King’s impactful work and inspirational message!
Vendor Information
If you are a passionate vendor who loves to sell their products or services, the Community Festival following the Annual Citywide MLK Community March & Rally is the perfect opportunity for you. All vendors must register and obtain all of their necessary information prior to attending this event.
Are you interested in grabbing a booth at the MLK Community Festival to showcase your specialty? All of this information can be found by clicking here. As a vendor at this special festival, you will have an amazing experience meeting new people and selling your unique products and services. Do not miss out on this one of a kind chance to take part in your community and become a part of history.
Parking Information
The locations below offer free parking on the morning and afternoon of the march and festival.
State’s Visitors Garage (12th & San Jacinto St.)
Kealing Middle School (1607 Pennsylvania Ave.)
Holy Cross Catholic Church (1610 E. 11th)
Blackshear Elementary (1712 E. 11th)
Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church (1206 E. 9th)
Mt. Olive Baptist Church (1800 E. 11th)
The legacy of Martin Luther King is one that we should all strive to uphold and honor. Showing worthy actions rather than mere words is an essential part of living out his message, and the MLK Community Festival and Food Drive provides a great opportunity to do just that. By donating goods or non-perishable food items, you're helping to benefit people in need. All items donated will go to the Central Texas Food Bank, so you'll be making a real difference in the lives of individuals and families across the region. So come on out and join in this meaningful effort - your small act could create a lasting legacy!
