MW Cares Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dallas-based MW Logistics, has proudly partnered with Tarleton State University Fort Worth to open The Purple Pantry – a cutting-edge, self-service food pantry designed to provide students with essential resources in a dignified and independent manner.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony, held on January 29, 2025, marked a significant milestone in MW Cares’ mission to combat food insecurity. Less than six months ago, students at Tarleton State’s Fort Worth campus relied on a small storage closet for food assistance. Today, thanks to MW Cares’ sponsorship, they now have access to a grocery store-style pantry featuring privacy glass and an automated entry system, allowing them to scan their ID, enter discreetly, and select what they need without restrictions or supervision.
“This initiative is personal to us,” said Mitchell Ward, CEO and Chairman of MW Logistics. “I grew up in a household where putting food on the table was a struggle. Today, through MW Cares, we are committed to ensuring that students don’t have to choose between their education and their next meal.”
MW Logistics, a national leader in third-party logistics, is not only dedicated to transforming the transportation industry – it is also the largest Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) provider of electric vehicles in the U.S. Through MW Cares, the company extends its impact by addressing food insecurity, housing needs, and educational opportunities in the communities it serves.
Pamela Wills-Ward, President of MW Cares Foundation and Chief People and Strategy Officer of MW Logistics, emphasized the company’s dedication to corporate social responsibility. “This pantry is an investment in the future of these students. We believe that when businesses step up and lead with purpose, real change happens.”
University leaders, including Dr. James L. Hurley, President of Tarleton State University, and Dr. Sherri Benn, Vice President for Global, Community and First-Gen Initiatives, expressed their gratitude for MW Cares’ generosity, noting that The Purple Pantry will play a critical role in ensuring that students can focus on their academic and personal growth without the burden of food insecurity.
