The Houston Food Bank's Inaugural Food from the Bar drive was a smashing success. 24 legal organizations came together for friendly competition for a much needed cause. Together the organizations raised $96,061, collected 5,066 pounds of food and donated 1,366 volunteer hours (418 volunteer shifts), which generated the equivalent of 374,378 meals for our community. Food from the Bar, which started by members of the legal profession in other cities including District of Columbia, Los Angeles and San Francisco to benefit food banks in their communities, is a month-long, competition. The event was timed to raise critical resources just before summer break, the time of greatest need for many local families who struggle to provide the extra food needed for children who are unable to receive breakfast and lunch at school.  

There were many awards given and accomplishments acknowledged, but the Overall Awards for highest combined totals were:

1st Place - Kirkland & Ellis LLP
2nd Place - Phillips 66 – Legal Department
3rd Place - Porter Hedges LLP
4th Place - American Bureau of Shipping
5th Place - The Lanier Law Firm 

“Kirkland & Ellis was excited to join the Food from the Bar campaign to give back to the Houston community through a combination of direct engagement, contributions and volunteer hours,” says Christopher Heasley, Kirkland’s Food from the Bar Coordinator, “The campaign provides a unique opportunity for the legal community to help feed families in our community, with Kirkland funding over 100,000 meals.  We are proud to be a part of the Houston Food Bank’s tireless effort to end hunger in the Houston area.”  

Food from the Bar definitely exceeded Houston Food Bank’s expectations, especially for a first-time event.  “The event achieved double what we thought we’d raise in the first year, and based on results from mature programs in other cities, we are very excited about the potential for Food from the Bar in Houston.” said Brian Greene, president/CEO of Houston Food Bank.  “Houston Food Bank cannot thank the local legal community enough for their hard work and generosity.”

To learn more about the Houston Food Bank and how you can help impact our community visit their website.