For Immediate Release:
Dateline: Washington,
DC
Wednesday, July 8, 2026
What began as a simple Facebook page connecting neighbors in Seymour, Texas, has grown into a valuable support organization. Through volunteerism, creative problem-solving, and an unwavering commitment to helping others, Seymour Helping Hands has transformed lives by addressing food insecurity, supporting families, assisting seniors, and creating a welcoming space where the community can come together. In just a few years, the nonprofit has expanded from a small online initiative into a certified community organization that demonstrates how local leadership and dedicated volunteers can create meaningful change.Restoring a Community Resource
One of Seymour Helping Hands' most significant accomplishments was transforming a severely damaged building into a thriving Community Center. Once plagued by a collapsed roof and extensive water damage, the building was renovated almost entirely through volunteer efforts.Today, it operates as a Level 2 certified facility through the State of Texas, providing a safe, welcoming place where residents can access services, attend meetings, and connect with one another. The center also serves as a gathering place for organizations including Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA), and other community groups, strengthening the organization's role as a hub for support, recovery, and connection.Meeting Everyday Needs With Practical Solutions
Seymour Helping Hands focuses on helping families meet immediate needs while preserving dignity and independence.Its Community Pantry has provided food, hygiene products, and household essentials to more than 700 families experiencing financial hardship. To expand that support, the organization launched its Bread Program in 2024, distributing more than 2,100 loaves of bread and bread products within its first six months.The organization also operates the New2U program, which redistributes donated household goods, clothing, furniture, utensils, and appliances to local families at no cost. Since its expansion, the program has assisted more than 200 families, helping residents furnish homes and replace essential household items without additional financial strain.Recognizing the needs of young families, Seymour Helping Hands also established a Parent Pantry that provides diapers, wipes, baby formula, and baby food to parents facing difficult circumstances.Supporting Seniors and Strengthening Community Connections
Beyond providing material assistance, Seymour Helping Hands has introduced programs designed to improve safety and reduce social isolation. Its Senior Safety Program installs free emergency key lockboxes in seniors' homes, allowing first responders to gain rapid access during medical emergencies when doors may be locked.The organization complements this initiative with Senior Socials, organizing outings such as theater matinees and holiday light tours that encourage friendship, reduce loneliness, and help older adults remain connected to their community. Additional partnerships, including work with the American Red Cross to distribute smoke alarms, further enhance home safety for residents.Powered by Volunteers
Despite operating with a relatively small volunteer team of approximately 10 to 20 people—including young volunteers as young as seven years old—Seymour Helping Hands delivers an impressive range of services.Volunteers contribute more than 2,000 hours each year supporting pantry distributions, renovation projects, outreach events, holiday celebrations, scholarship fundraising, and community programs.The organization continues to expand its partnerships with schools, churches, and local organizations while developing new initiatives, including plans for an inclusive community park where people of all ages and abilities can gather and play.Its continued growth demonstrates how a grassroots organization can create lasting community impact through collaboration, compassion, and a shared commitment to serving neighbors.Seymour Helping Hands won a Silver Stevie® Award for Organization of the Year – Government or Non-Profit – 10 or Less Employees in the 2025 Stevie Awards for Women in Business. Interested in entering for the 2026 program? 
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