My Story
From Humble Beginnings to Empowering Communities
Hi, I’m Julio Garcia, and my story is one of resilience, faith, and purpose. Every chapter of my journey has shaped who I am today. From washing dishes on my parents’ front porch in Mexico to empowering small businesses and helping vulnerable communities in the U.S., this is the path that has defined me.
The Early Years: A Childhood of Responsibility
My journey as a business owner didn’t start with success; it began with struggle. At just six years old, I was already helping my parents run their small food business in Mexico. They sold meals from our front porch, and my job was to clean dishes for the next round of customers.
By the time I was eight, we opened a small shop called La Pasadita, selling flans, jellos, and fresh-squeezed juices. It was my first taste of what running a business felt like, but it wasn’t without challenges. Despite some success, my parents struggled to manage the finances, and I quickly learned that running a business took more than just hard work—it required discipline and structure.
When my father left for the U.S., everything changed. At the age of 10, I took on even more responsibility, including running the family business on my own when my parents were too discouraged to open the shop. It was a lot for a child, but it gave me the resilience and determination that would guide me for years to come.
Adjusting to Life in the U.S.
When I was 11 years old, we joined my father in the United States. Life here was different. I started collecting cans and stripping copper wire for extra money. By 14, I was working under a fake ID as a busboy, dishwasher, and eventually a cook. These experiences taught me valuable skills and built my work ethic.
One pivotal moment came when I convinced my mom to make her signature flans and jellos again. I went door-to-door selling them in apartment complexes and became known as “El Güero de las Gelatinas.” Soon, I expanded, stocking local supermarkets with our desserts on consignment. At just 15, I was managing distribution to seven stores in Dallas.
Facing Challenges and Finding Strength
At 17, my life took a drastic turn. After intervening during a domestic violence incident at home, my father was deported, and I felt the weight of guilt and responsibility. I worked two jobs—at Jamba Juice during the day and cleaning at night—to support my family, often going days without sleep.
Despite the challenges, I discovered a passion for marketing through network marketing. Although I briefly attended college on a scholarship, I had to drop out because of financial difficulties. But I didn’t let that stop me. I taught myself everything I could about business and marketing, laying the foundation for my future endeavors.
Building Businesses and Breaking Cycles
In my early 20s, I got married and started a family. I joined my father in the construction industry and eventually launched Garcia’s Drywall Repair. Although the business grew, tensions between my father and me led to its closure.
Years later, my parents and I opened Doña Jacky, a snack shop in Waxahachie. The business thrived, earning over $350,000 in its first year, but family tensions resurfaced. I stepped away briefly, only to return with a new concept: El Quechido, a restaurant under the same roof as Doña Jacky. Together, we brought the business back to life, integrating community-focused initiatives like the Pay It Forward program, which provided meals and encouragement to those in need.
The Birth of Foodies Forward
One day, I made a TikTok video about feeding seniors from a local center, and it resonated deeply with people. Donations poured in, and I was able to cater meals for 90 seniors. This sparked the creation of Foodies Forward, my nonprofit organization.
Through Foodies Forward, we’ve been able to:
- Cater meals for seniors and homeless individuals, often from locally-owned restaurants.
- Provide companionship to abandoned seniors.
- Create opportunities for small businesses to grow while giving back to their communities.
These initiatives allowed me to channel my experiences into something meaningful. The struggles I faced in my family and businesses became the foundation for helping others.
Healing and Moving Forward
Personal and family challenges tested my faith and resilience. At one point, I had to make the difficult decision to set boundaries with my family while choosing forgiveness over bitterness. Through prayer and reflection, I found healing, allowing me to focus on what truly mattered: building a positive legacy for my family and community. (Watch The Following Video For Context)
Julio The Foodio
At Julio The Foodio, my mission is simple: to uplift and empower small businesses while staying rooted in faith. One of the ways I do this is by praying for the businesses I visit, asking for blessings, growth, and success in their journey.
Let’s Pray Together:
If you’re a business owner and would like us to pray for your business, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’d be honored to include you in our prayers and support your journey however we can.
Watch The Video:
Join me and my family in a heartfelt prayer for the small businesses we support. Together, we believe in the power of faith to inspire and create lasting impact.
Empowering Small Businesses, Building Stronger Communities
At Foodies Forward, we’re more than just a resource for small businesses—we’re a movement dedicated to uplifting entrepreneurs and giving back to the community. Through our digital food directory, marketing services, workshops, and community initiatives, we strive to provide small businesses with the tools they need to succeed while making a meaningful impact.
What We Do
Beyond supporting businesses, we’re dedicated to giving back:
- Senior Citizens: Providing meals and companionship to seniors abandoned or neglected by their families.
- Homeless Individuals: Ensuring access to nourishing meals and support.
Why Foodies Forward?
- We empower small businesses to thrive with tools and affordable services tailored to their needs.
- 100% of our profits support feeding neglected seniors and helping those in need.
- Our network is a space where entrepreneurs can grow, learn, and connect with like-minded individuals.
Watch The Video:
Discover how we’re making a difference and see how you can join the mission. Whether you’re a business owner, a community supporter, or just curious about what we do, there’s a place for you at Foodies Forward.
What Defines Me: My 5 Core Values