A few years back I took my three children and moved in with my mom. I fled an abusive relationship and took nothing but the clothes on our backs. It was difficult, starting over – but I didn’t know things were about to get even worse.

After we moved in, my mom lost her job due to illness. I can’t work because daycare is too expensive and my youngest is not yet in school. So we all moved in with my sister and live with her now. There are eight of us in the household. When we each contribute a little we can get by.

I’m not sure we could make it work though, without the help of the food pantry. It has been a god send. Everyone there is absolutely amazing; they are big-hearted, super caring and make you feel at home. They don’t make you feel ashamed to ask for help. The food pantry has helped us put food on the table and ensure that my children eat. Even though there are still times when I skip meals because there isn’t enough, I’m glad I never have to worry about my children going hungry.

I’m proud of my children. Despite all the tough things they’ve been through, they are doing well. They are happy and healthy. Through his entire ordeal they’ve only missed two hours of school in three years. And in August my youngest will go to kindergarten, which means I can start working full time. There are better days ahead. In the meantime I want to say thank you, from the bottom of my heart, to the food pantry for helping us get there.