A Centralized Resource Hub for the Community
Residents in the Leander and Cedar Park area may soon have access to a centralized hub for essential resources and services. Hill Country Community Ministries (HCCM), a nonprofit known for its food pantry and thrift store, is working to establish a nonprofit mall by the end of 2025.
“Everybody knows we need this, and [having the] opportunity to make this happen would be a huge gift to our community,” said Tiesa Hollaway, HCCM’s executive director.
The Vision
HCCM has submitted a letter of intent to purchase a 30,000-square-foot building near The Crossover sports complex, located behind Red Horn Brewery & Roastery. The new space will allow HCCM to expand its food distribution services and collaborate with other nonprofits to provide support for medical care, mental health, financial services, and more.
This facility aims to serve as a one-stop resource center for the community. Services for veterans, children, and seniors, as well as job application assistance and help with disability, Social Security, or SNAP benefits, will be available.
The nonprofit mall may also host a satellite location for the Williamson County Children’s Advocacy Center, which responds to child abuse and neglect cases. Discussions are ongoing with other nonprofits, including medical clinics, to join the space.
The Funding Challenge
While HCCM has $5 million in funding allocated for this project, it needs an additional $3–$4 million to secure the $8.1 million property within the next 90 days.
The Current Landscape
Since 1985, HCCM has been a vital resource for residents of western Williamson County and northwest Travis County. Its current 3,000-square-foot food pantry in Leander provides up to three weeks’ worth of groceries to families and daily food items through its community cupboard.
With 11 mobile distribution sites, HCCM served over 136,000 people across 100+ zip codes in 2023. However, the demand for services has outgrown the current facility.
“We have completely outgrown that facility with the demands to help these families,” Hollaway said.
Why It Matters
HCCM’s new nonprofit mall will provide more than food—it will offer dignity and accessibility for those in need. Hollaway, who experienced financial struggles as a single mom, understands the challenges families face when seeking help.
“When you not only have to ask for help once but… tell your story over and over, it’s very humbling and it’s difficult,” Hollaway said. “This would allow people a little more dignity [and to] feel better, because they can get most of the things that they need in one spot.”
Looking Ahead
HCCM is also exploring additional ways to serve the community. Plans are in the works to convert its current food pantry property into transitional housing, accommodating around eight tiny homes. Zoning approval has already been granted for the 1.5-acre site.
How You Can Help
HCCM’s nonprofit mall could transform the way local families access resources, but the project requires community support. To donate, visit HCCM’s website or contact Tiesa Hollaway directly at [email protected] or 512-259-0360, extension 204.
Hollaway will present the nonprofit mall project at the Cedar Park City Council meeting on Dec. 12 alongside Kerrie Stannell, CEO of the Williamson County Children’s Advocacy Center. She also plans to seek financial support from local city and county officials.
Together, the community can bring this vision to life and make a lasting impact on the lives of those in need. If you love Leander and want to join our incredible community, Contact The Cummings Team® today!
Image Credit and Source: Community Impact.