H-E-B’s Bold Expansion: Supporting Growth and Affordable Living in Austin

By Francis Page, Jr.

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    December 2, 2024 (Houston Style Magazine) — H-E-B, Texas’s beloved grocery chain, continues to redefine community support with its latest announcement: a groundbreaking $1 million donation to Austin Habitat for Humanity and a flurry of new store openings and renovations across the Austin area. As a steadfast pillar of community growth, H-E-B is proving yet again that business can be a powerful force for good.

A Store for Every Neighborhood

The East Austin community is abuzz with excitement as H-E-B reveals plans for a brand-new store at McKinney Falls Parkway and William Cannon. Scheduled to break ground next year, the store promises to transform an underserved area into a bustling hub for both commerce and community. With this project and several others in the pipeline, H-E-B isn’t just opening stores — it’s opening opportunities.

In fact, this year alone, H-E-B has committed to 12 major Austin-area projects, including six new stores and six renovations. This robust growth initiative will not only elevate the shopping experience but also generate over 4,000 local jobs. From the newly opened third Pflugerville location featuring True Texas BBQ to a state-of-the-art South Congress store slated to open in December, H-E-B is leaving no corner of the region untouched.

A Commitment to Affordable Housing

Amid Austin’s skyrocketing housing market, H-E-B’s $1 million donation to Austin Habitat for Humanity is a game-changer. The funds will directly support two major affordable housing projects: Persimmon Point, which will offer 126 units, and Whisper Valley, with nearly 50 single-family homes.

“This isn’t just a financial contribution; it’s a lifeline for hardworking families striving for stability and security,” said Michele Anderson, CEO of Austin Habitat for Humanity. “H-E-B’s investment empowers us to dream bigger and build stronger communities.”

These efforts couldn’t come at a better time. Austin’s Eastern Crescent, a rapidly growing region, is grappling with a lack of affordable housing. By aligning its business strategy with community needs, H-E-B is setting a new standard for corporate responsibility.

Building a Future Together

H-E-B’s vision extends far beyond its storefronts. Over the past five years, the company has donated nearly $50 million to Austin-area nonprofits. From education to housing, H-E-B’s generosity touches nearly every facet of community life.

“As a company rooted in Texas, we take immense pride in supporting the places where our customers and employees live, work, and thrive,” said Cathy Harm, H-E-B’s Senior Vice President for the Central Texas Region.

A Legacy of Service

Since its founding in 1905, H-E-B has been more than a grocery chain — it’s been a family member, a neighbor, and a champion for progress. As the company unveils its ambitious plans for Austin, one thing is clear: H-E-B is here to stay, and it’s here to make a difference.

With every new store and every dollar donated, H-E-B is building more than shelves and aisles. It’s building stronger neighborhoods, brighter futures, and a legacy of giving that Austin and the entire state of Texas can be proud of.

Closing Thoughts

H-E-B’s unwavering commitment to innovation and community support is a masterclass in how businesses can drive meaningful change. As Austin continues to grow, H-E-B’s investments in affordable housing, job creation, and store improvements serve as a beacon of hope and opportunity.

So the next time you walk through an H-E-B, remember: every cart, every aisle, and every checkout counter is part of a bigger story — one where Texans uplift each other and thrive together.

For more info, visit HEB.com

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