Judy Balunda, the owner of JudyPie in Grapevine, has transformed her pie shop into a platform for raising awareness and funds for mental health issues. Since opening in 2016, Balunda has dedicated her business to supporting mental health initiatives, particularly through her partnership with My Health My Resources of Tarrant County (MHMR), a nonprofit organization that provides essential mental health and substance abuse services.
Balunda, a 73-year-old cancer survivor, uses her baking not only to create delicious treats but also to foster a sense of community. Each customer at JudyPie is encouraged to donate to MHMR, contributing to vital mental health services. The shop also features notecards on each table, inviting visitors to write messages of support for individuals facing mental health challenges. Balunda personally distributes these notes, along with hygiene products, to those in need at MHMR’s Fort Worth community center.
Balunda’s commitment to mental health advocacy has earned her recognition as part of the 52 Faces of Community, a series by the Fort Worth Report highlighting local heroes. Catherine Carlton, the chief of staff at MHMR, nominated her for her resilience and dedication to mental health awareness. Carlton noted that Balunda’s visits, which often include pies and handwritten encouragement, help reduce isolation and bring joy to those in distress.
The impetus for Balunda’s advocacy comes from her own struggles with depression, which she has battled for decades. With a background as a special education teacher for nearly 30 years, she understands the stigma surrounding mental illness and is determined to combat it through her work at JudyPie.
“People here have mental health struggles, too,” Balunda said, reflecting on the challenges faced by her community. She believes that many individuals lack access to therapy and medication, which is why she actively promotes awareness and empathy through her business.
JudyPie, which was named the fifth-best pie shop in the country in 2024, serves a diverse menu of pies, cakes, and treats, catering to various dietary preferences including gluten-free, vegan, and dog-friendly options. Balunda’s approach to baking is deeply personal; she draws from a collection of old cookbooks and creates flavors based on customer requests.
For instance, the strawberry rhubarb pie became a signature offering after many customers expressed their nostalgia for the dessert. “I’ve seen grown men cry when they try it because it reminds them of what their grandma would make,” Balunda shared.
Looking ahead, Balunda dreams of establishing a community center in Grapevine to further support mental health initiatives. She believes the city needs more resources and awareness compared to its neighbors. The proposed center would serve as a safe space for individuals to connect and share their experiences, reinforcing the message that they are not alone in their struggles.
Balunda’s hands-on approach, from baking pies to personally delivering care packages, exemplifies her commitment to mental health advocacy. Through her efforts, she not only creates delicious baked goods but also nurtures a community of support and understanding.
As the year progresses, Balunda’s contributions will be recognized at a luncheon where one unsung hero will be selected to represent Tarrant County at the Jefferson Awards in Washington, D.C. Her work serves as a reminder of the profound impact that individual actions can have on mental health awareness and community resilience.
