About the Pantry!

Kris and Bill Ware built a life rooted in faith, service, and a deep love for their community. Bill (1941–2025) proudly served 20 years in the U.S. Air Force before continuing his career in aircraft modification, while Kris devoted countless hours to volunteering throughout East Texas. Together, they believed no one should have to wonder where their next meal would come from.

After retiring to the Alba-Golden area in 2006, Kris began volunteering at local food pantries, gaining firsthand experience with the growing need for food assistance in Wood County. By 2018, she and Bill decided to do something about it. Using their own retirement savings and the support of generous neighbors, they opened a small food pantry inside a local church, serving about 65 families.

When the COVID-19 pandemic began in 2020, the Wares made the decision that the pantry would never close. They established Rose Hill Community Food Pantry as a nonprofit 501(c)(3) and transformed an old auto repair shop into the pantry's permanent home. Through hard work, generous community support, and God's provision, the pantry has grown to serve approximately 550 families, with a special focus on seniors, veterans, and children facing food insecurity.

Although Bill passed away in 2025, his legacy lives on in every family served through the pantry. His compassion, generosity, and servant's heart continue to shape the mission he and Kris built together.

Today, Kris, along with an incredible team of volunteers and supporters, continues the work they began. Rose Hill Community Food Pantry remains a place where neighbors help neighbors, and where every person is welcomed with dignity, kindness, and hope. Around here, many still lovingly call it "God's Pantry."