Rockwall, TX – May 29, 2025 – As temperatures rise across Texas, Rockwall County Helping Hands is kicking off its annual Summer Relief Campaign to meet the urgent needs of families facing seasonal challenges. While many look forward to summer vacations and poolside fun, others in our community are simply hoping to keep their homes cool and their children fed.
Summer presents a critical gap for many children who rely on free and reduced lunch programs during the school year. Without that support, food insecurity increases—and so does the need for community help.
How You Can Help This Summer:
1. Make a Monetary Donation
Flexible funding allows Helping Hands to respond in real time to the most pressing needs—whether it’s food, utility assistance, or emergency housing support.
Donate at: www.RockwallHelpingHands.com/Donate
Your donation stays local and supports Rockwall County families directly.
2. Host a Summer Food Drive
With pantry requests up 70% and the client base tripling, donations are essential to keeping shelves stocked.
Most-needed items: cereal, canned proteins, cooking oil, Hamburger Helper, pasta, hygiene items, and large-size diapers. To host a food drive, email: Renafockler@rockwallhelpinghands.com
3. Support the Back-to-School Supply Drive
Helping Hands’ annual drive ensures every child is equipped to start the school year strong. Sponsor or donate: rockwallhelpinghands.com/events/adopt-a-student
4. Donate Clothing, Shoes & Household Goods
Summer essentials like children’s swimwear, sandals, and lightweight clothes are in high demand. Gently-used items are either distributed to families or sold to fund vital programs. Donations accepted at the Helping Hands Thrift Store or Boutique.
5. Volunteer Your Time
From student service hours to corporate team-building, summer is a great time to give back. Volunteers support everything from food pantry operations to thrift store sorting. Email: SophieBailey@rockwallhelpinghands.com to get started.
“Together, we can make sure every child feels cared for and every family has the support they need,” said Rena Fockler, Director of Development. “Your generosity helps us turn summer stress into summer support.”
About Rockwall County Helping Hands
Helping Hands has served Rockwall County since 1976 with programs focused on crisis assistance, health care, and client services. Its mission is to ensure that no Rockwall County resident goes without basic necessities due to temporary hardship.
For more information, visit: www.RockwallHelpingHands.com
Submitted by Melody L. Hail, Senior Director Philanthropy, Helping Hands of Rockwall
