East Texas Food Bank, SWEPCO partnership aims to fight hunger in region

Published 5:35 am Tuesday, February 10, 2026

The East Texas Food Bank and SWEPCO Foundation have teamed to reduce hunger in the region.

On Monday, leaders of both organizations rebranded the food bank’s Longview Resource Center, which now will be known as the East Texas Food Bank Longview Resource Center Powered by SWEPCO Foundation, officials said.

A lack of food remains a big problem in East Texas, where about 18.5% of the population – roughly 23,050 people – struggle with food insecurity. About 27.4% of children, or roughly 8,850, face food insecurity.

The food bank served 1.2 million meals in the past year. The resource center is open for residents and families in the region to get food they need. The partnership with the SWEPCO Foundation helps ensure the Longview facility is stocked.

“This partnership with the SWEPCO Foundation is a powerful step forward in our mission to end

hunger in East Texas,” David Emerson, CEO of the East Texas Food Bank, said in a statement. “Their support allows us to serve more people, provide more meals, and make a lasting difference for families who are struggling. Together, we are strengthening our community and offering hope to our neighbors when they need it most.”

Mark Robinson, external affairs manager for SWEPCO, said in a statement: “We are honored to support the East Texas Food Bank and the Greater Longview community through the naming of the Longview Resource Center Powered by SWEPCO Foundation. This SWEPCO Foundation contribution honors the legacy of James Templeton and reflects a commitment to improve food security where our customers and neighbors live and work.”

Templeton was a member of the board of directors of Central and South West Corporation, the former parent company of SWEPCO.

“Mr. Templeton’s service on the Board of Directors of Central and Southwest Corporation exemplified leadership and deep industry expertise — values we are proud to carry forward as this center continues serving Longview for years to come,” Robinson said.

The resource center, 2900 Signal Hill Drive, is open 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday as well as 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday.

People can visit twice per month.