YWCA El Paso del Norte Region Renovates Transitional Living Center Kitchen with a Generous Donation from ONE Gas Foundation

November 8, 2023

YWCA El Paso del Norte Region (YWCA) held a ribbon cutting ceremony to unveil the newly renovated kitchen located in The Sara McKnight Transitional Living Center (TLC). This remarkable renovation was made possible with the unwavering generosity of Texas Gas Services. The ONE Gas Foundation donated $75, 000 to YWCA in support of this renovation project.

The upgraded facilities, including the new floor, repaired walls and ceiling, updated plumbing, improved lighting, and modern appliances, have significantly enhanced the overall experience of the 200 families served yearly at the TLC.

“There is something sacred about being able to nourish your family, and to do so in the safety and security of the TLC is a meaningful experience for the women and children we serve”, said YWCA CEO Sereka Barlow. “The ONE Gas Foundation helped YWCA to create a space that provides empowerment and dignity to our TLC guests, and that is a powerful result of our partnership.”

The TLC provides housing, programming, and support for women and families to rebuild their lives often after surviving domestic violence and homelessness. The completion of the project has allowed Borderplex families, who reside at the shelter, the benefits of a clean and well-equipped space, fostering a sense of dignity, comfort, and normalcy during their stay.

”One significant improvement that this grant has made possible is the expansion of the kitchen. With the addition of commercial-grade natural gas equipment and an expanded space, families can now cook hot meals at their leisure and come together in a space large enough to accommodate the residents’ needs. As they say, the kitchen is often the heart of the home, and Texas Gas Service is honored to have played a part in making this vital space even more special” said Elizabeth O’Hara, Community Relations Regional Manager, Texas Gas Service.

Thanks to Texas Gas Service’s generous donation, YWCA was able to transform the kitchen into a space that is not only functional for food preparation, but also a comfortable and accommodating environment.