Members of Elbit America’s Green Team help distribute food, more

Dec. 12, 2024

A shopping cart rolls along shelves filled with bread, rice and beans, peanut butter, meat, available produce, and other snacks. When the cart makes its way through the Northside Inter-Community Agency’s (NICA) Food Pantry, the end result is a cart full of groceries that can be used for several meals to support a Fort Worth family when times are tough, and the holidays are fast approaching.

On Friday, December 6, when most of the Fort Worth-based workforce enjoyed a down day, a small group of company employees volunteered their time at the nearby NICA Food Pantry. The group from Elbit America’s Green Team, helped distribute groceries for community members in need. After a rush for available food when the Pantry opened its doors, volunteers also helped with other tasks such as sorting and processing donated clothing, and light administrative duties in the non-profit’s small office. The volunteers’ efforts were recognized by the agency’s small administrative staff and has ignited a partnership that will result in more food and volunteerism directed to NICA.

“It was a sunny day, but chilly. I was shredding documents in the office and was surprised to hear an older woman come through the office doors and request a winter coat. She walked with a cane and was lightly dressed,” said Amy Hartley, one of the Elbit America volunteers that worked a short shift at the NICA Food Pantry. “The client’s simple request was a wake-up call for me: A coat. I can’t imagine needing one and having to seek out assistance to find one at no-cost.”

NICA is no stranger to those experiencing hard times. Requests for clothes, food, and other assistance is what the agency is committed to providing residents on the North Side of Fort Worth and surrounding areas. The agency’s been filling those needs since 1969, while also offering self-help programs to families, and assistance to those experiencing homelessness.

Community members come to NICA to benefit from food donations through the Tarrant Area Food Bank, local grocers, and others. Items are sorted and prepared for seniors, families, and those who are unsheltered.

After spending a morning at NICA, volunteers learned there is much our company employees can provide that would support this agency’s mission of “providing a hand-up and not just a handout.”

Christy Bland, one of the Elbit America volunteers, said, “It’s an honor to support Elbit America’s mission to enhance lives. Witnessing the need firsthand and knowing we could make an immediate and meaningful difference is a truly rewarding feeling.”

The Green Team was established as an Elbit America tribe in 2024, with a sustainability focus. Company-wide, it’s one of the largest tribes. The NICA Food Pantry and their clothing donation services fit well with the tribe’s goals. Food pantries recover and redistribute surplus food that would otherwise be wasted or unused. The clothing donations, also available at NICA, repurpose unwanted or outgrown items that could be perfect for someone who can’t afford shoes, shirts, or even a winter coat.

"I am so grateful for the help and support of the Elbit America Green Team. The needs of our neighbors are great and the only way NICA can help meet them is through the generosity of time, gifts, and the hearts of community members,” said Catherine Hollis, NICA’s Executive Director.