Southeast Texas Food Bank Announces $230,000 Donation by Motiva Enterprises to Support Hunger Relief
News Release Issued by the Southeast Texas Food Bank
December 4, 2025
The Southeast Texas Food Bank is proud to announce a $230,000 donation from Motiva Enterprises LLC to address the growing crisis of food insecurity in our region. This vital contribution includes $200,000 directed to the Food Bank for the purchase of a refrigerated truck, along with $30,000 allocated to six local food pantries serving the Port Arthur area.
The Golden Triangle region ranks among the top 10 in the nation for food insecurity. Motiva’s support comes at a critical time, enabling us to safely transport and distribute fresh, perishable food to families across the seven counties we serve. The new refrigerated truck will dramatically improve our capacity to reach more vulnerable households, while the additional funds will empower local pantries to expand services and respond to increasing community needs.
“With reductions in grant funding and government aid, Motiva’s support is a lifeline for the one in five Southeast Texans currently facing food insecurity,” said Harvey Zernial, President and CEO of the Southeast Texas Food Bank. “Our organization serves more than 75,000 individuals each month, and refrigerated trucks are critical to ensuring fresh food reaches those who need it most. This donation will help us keep nutritious food safe and accessible for our neighbors.”
Food Banks across the nation rely on support from corporate partners like Motiva to sustain our operations and expand our reach. Motiva’s significant contribution demonstrates a deep commitment to strengthening Southeast Texas communities and addressing urgent needs.
“Motiva is deeply committed to supporting our neighbors in the Port Arthur and Golden Triangle region,” said Jeff Rinker, Motiva President and CEO. “As an integral part of this community for over 125 years, we’re proud to partner with the Southeast Texas Food Bank and local pantries to expand access to nutritious food and support the wellbeing of our community.”
The Southeast Texas Food Bank appreciates Motiva’s partnership. Together, we are making strides to ensure that every resident in our region has access to safe, healthy food and Hope Beyond Hunger.
About Southeast Texas Food Bank
The Southeast Texas Food Bank is a nonprofit organization dedicated to leading the fight against hunger in Southeast Texas. Since its founding in 1991, the Food Bank has grown from a modest satellite operation into an independent member of the Feeding America network, serving eight counties: Jefferson, Orange, Hardin, Jasper, Newton, Polk, Sabine, and Tyler.
Our mission is simple yet vital: to eliminate hunger and inadequate nutrition in Southeast Texas. Today, we distribute millions of pounds of food annually through a network of more than 130 partner agencies and schools, providing essential meals to thousands of households each month.
With nearly 15% of Southeast Texas residents living in poverty, including one in four children and a significant portion of seniors, the need for food assistance remains urgent. Through community partnerships, donations, and volunteer support, we strive to ensure that no one in our region goes hungry.
To learn more about our programs or to get involved, visit www.setxfoodbank.org.