“When I see my kids enjoy a meal made from the pantry, it makes me think that I can be a good mom, that I am a good mom. I am able to do what I need to provide for my children even though we struggle financially.”

Edwin has been on the list for a heart transplant for three years and is hoping he’s matched to a donor soon. But while he waits, he needs to eat as healthy as possible.

“Eating healthy is just too expensive for us. I wouldn’t be able to afford this food otherwise. This is saving us money and it’s also keeping me healthy. We’re staying as positive as we can and this food is doing the job.”​

“After coming home, everything that seemed normal before had changed.” Since completing his service, Mikel suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder and is disabled. “Without the food pantry, life would be a lot more difficult. When we go to the pantry, it’s a relief. It’s just helpful knowing that there’s something out there for us.”

“I worked all my life. I never thought I’d be in poverty. I have about 10 medications I’m on because of my back injury. When I run out, I wonder if I’m going to have enough money to just pay for those let alone for food. Without the food bank and the pantry, I’d be going hungry.”