Irving Cares, Inc. was organized in 1957 by a group of citizens in Irving who were interested in the social welfare of needy people in their community. On October 25, 1963, the laws of the state of Texas incorporated Irving Aid. The bylaws were approved in 1964 and revised periodically, most recently in 2010. Irving Aid, Inc. was supported by the United Fund and operated with a staff of volunteers until 1973, when the agency reorganized and hired its first full-time paid staff.
Irving Aid, Inc. changed its name to Irving C.A.R.E.S., Inc. (Community Assistance Referral and Emergency Services) in 1991. On July 21, 1998, the Board of Directors voted to change the agency’s name from Irving C.A.R.E.S., Inc. to Irving Cares, Inc., and shortly adopted the tag line, “A lifeline for Irving residents in need.”
Since 2001, Irving Cares has consistently achieved United Way’s #1 top stewardship rating for fiduciary management and board oversight. In 2005, Irving Cares received the City of Irving’s Housing and Human Services Department’s Award for Outstanding Community Partner. Charity Navigator announced in 2005 and 2006 that Irving Cares earned a 4-star rating for the ability to efficiently allocate and grow finances. In March 2008, TXU Energy Aid recognized Irving Cares as an original community partner, acknowledging 25 years of continuous partnership in commitment to serving Irving’s working poor. The demand for Irving Cares’ programs continues to grow as evidenced by annual increases in the numbers of people served, currently equal to 18% of the city of Irving’s population. We exceed industry standards with more than eighty cents of every dollar raised going back into the community as a program-related expense. Irving Cares is considered a model agency by the North Texas Food Bank and annually passes their very thorough inspection of our facilities, products and volunteer training.