Throughout the year, Atmos Energy is focused on supporting the communities where we live and work by providing essential resources through donations to community action agencies and nonprofit organizations. Our Fueling Safe and Thriving Communities initiative allows us to reach vulnerable neighbors in a number of ways – from distributing utility funds at energy blitzes to stocking shelves at food pantries. In September alone, we distributed a total of $6 million to nonprofits and community action agencies throughout our divisions. One nonprofit in Irving, Texas, received $179,895 for both energy assistance needs and food bank necessities. 

“We are able to serve Irving residents in a big way thanks to the support Atmos Energy brings to the table,” said Kyle Taylor, Irving Cares CEO. “With costs of so many goods continuing to rise, the demand for emergency food assistance is high. Thanks to Atmos Energy, Irving Cares can provide boots on the ground to offer nourishing food week-in-and-week-out to our neighbors.” The donation will not only provide funds for the upcoming January energy assistance blitz but will help support approximately 38,000 families in the Irving and Dallas County areas. 

Irving Cares was founded in 1957 by a group of Irving citizens and churches to address poverty and hardship within their community. The nonprofit, dedicated to providing emergency assistance and resources to individuals and families in need, has partnered with Atmos Energy since 2015. Al Hernandez, public affairs manager, says the staff is always grateful and appreciative of our support, and our donations are received like a brand-new gift every time. For Al, the relationship formed with Irving Cares is most valuable. 

“When I first met Kyle, I was new to the area, and he asked how he could help me establish my footing in Irving,” said Al. “He sincerely wanted me to succeed. When you have an organization that provides basic needs for the community, and the people who work there genuinely care about others, you want to help them as much as you can because you see their passion for service in how kindly they treat you. You can feel how proud they are to provide a service to the community in the stories they tell.” 

Initially, Irving Cares focused on providing food, clothing, and necessities to struggling families. Over time, it has expanded its services to address a broader range of needs. Al said Irving Cares is like a one-stop shop. The nonprofit provides groceries to neighbors facing hunger and offers emergency financial assistance, employment services, education and training, and transportation services. Its primary mission is to offer assistance that promotes self-sufficiency and independence while addressing immediate needs. 

At a recent volunteer event, Atmos Energy employees witnessed firsthand how our partnership with Irving Cares is helping the local community. When a truckload of food arrived, employees unloaded the truck and sorted through perishable and nonperishable items; stocked shelves and placed fresh produce, like eggs, into refrigerators; and poured detergent powder into zip lock bags that are then placed into larger boxes for families and individuals.  

“We were quite surprised at not only the need, but how much a dollar can impact a nonprofit organization,” added Al. Over the years, Atmos Energy has donated a total of $238,901, providing more than 77,000 meals to hungry Irving families. 

Because nonprofit organizations do not always hear or see the impact they are making in the community, Al continually thanks Irving Cares for the work they do in the community.  

To learn more about Irving Cares, click here.