SAAFE House director coordinates community donations, meal distribution for Huntsville residents in need
HUNTSVILLE, Texas — As Thanksgiving approaches, SAAFE House Executive Director Tracy Stoudt is helping lead a growing community effort to provide full holiday meals to families who might otherwise go without.
Preparing for a Season of Need
Stoudt said the organization stays “so busy at the SAAFE House,” noting that the fall season brings a wave of needs from families in crisis. “We are getting ready to do Thanksgiving meals for our families,” she said, adding that the group has also set up its annual Christmas giving tree with wish lists from residents and outreach clients.
Stoudt said the requests can be humbling. “Last year I had a little boy that just wanted his own pillow.”
A Family Tradition Grows Into a Community Project
This year’s Thanksgiving effort began as a continuation of a family tradition started years ago. “My son reminded us the other day,” Stoudt said, describing how he once helped distribute holiday meals at their church. Since then, her son and his wife decided to expand the outreach. “They said, ‘I want to go big or go home.’ She has a heart for people.”
The family gathered friends, small businesses and partners to help fund and assemble the meals. “They were all on board,” Stoudt said.
She helped provide the plan and the shopping list but said the next generation took it from there. Her son and his team even negotiated with Walmart after filling carts with canned goods. “The manager said, ‘What are you doing?’ And when he heard the purpose, he matched all the prices and is loading it all on pallets.”
Free Thanksgiving Meals Available Saturday
The community distribution will take place Saturday, Nov. 22, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Avenue M. Stoudt emphasized that the meals are meant to help anyone who needs a hand. “It’s not a handout, it’s a hand up,” she said.
Families will receive two chickens and all the fixings for a traditional Thanksgiving meal. “If they need prayer, there’ll be two different churches there to cover you in the Word while we’re at it,” she added.
Those needing a meal can still sign up. “Call my office today at 936-291-3529,” Stoudt said. She estimated about “45 or 50” meals were still available.
Community Support and Gratitude
Stoudt credited the collaboration among businesses, volunteers and churches for making this year’s expanded outreach possible. “God has just orchestrated it,” she said. “The money came in. The families are coming in that need the food.”
She also shared a message for anyone hesitant to ask for help. “Don’t feel ashamed of that,” she said. “You’re stealing somebody’s joy if they want to help you. Let them help you.”
SAAFE House serves survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault and family trauma across Walker County. Stoudt said the Thanksgiving outreach reflects the mission of helping families rebuild. “We give back to the community and let them understand what SAAFE House is all about.”