A Simple Act of Nourishing Kindness

In 1998, Jason Hernandez was sentenced to life without parole for a nonviolent drug offense. Fifteen years later, President Obama commuted his sentence, and in 2023 Jason received a full pardon. Since returning to McKinney, he has dedicated his life to giving back to the community he once felt he failed.

One of his most impactful projects is La Tiendita, a transformed neighborhood store on McKinney’s east side. Once an unkempt smoke shop selling tobacco, lottery tickets, and junk food—just steps from an elementary school—it is now a bright, welcoming space offering healthy groceries and fresh prepared meals.

La Tiendita stocks fresh fruits, vegetables, dairy, and bread, and its café serves wholesome meals. Beyond groceries, it runs a nine-month internship program teaching students financial literacy, decision-making, and social skills, helping them graduate and continue their education.

Every school day, La Tiendita provides free snacks, fruit, and drinks to neighborhood kids, many of whom face food insecurity. This simple daily kindness makes a big difference, keeping students nourished and ready to learn.

MADC wants to help keep that going. We’re collecting snacks for La Tiendita between now and Aug. 8—click on the Amazon Wish List to join us.

La Tiendita is more than a store—it’s a symbol of redemption, hope, and what’s possible when one person chooses to give back.