"It's Wonderful"

Volunteer at our Healthy Choice Market!

Lately, life has been tough for seniors John and Debbie.

The couple recently visited the Greater Cleveland Food Bank’s Community Resource Center to make ends meet. “Our SNAP benefits were recently reduced, so we’re here for some groceries,” Debbie shares. Their SNAP allowance now totals just $23 a month, which isn’t nearly enough to get what they need. This has meant a lot of budgeting and adjusting to ensure they can survive on her part-time work and disability benefits for John, who has health struggles.

Visiting the Resource Center for the first time was an emotional step, but it brought a sense of relief. “It was hard for us to come. It was difficult coming to this place at first,” Debbie shares. “It’s difficult going from place to place — a food bank here, a church there,” Debbie adds.

And she loves the grocery store setup, which allows visitors to pick what they want and leave what they don’t. “It’s wonderful. We have fresh produce, and you can choose what you want, check nutrition labels, and pick from a variety of items like bread, lentils, or beans.” That’s a huge benefit for John and his medical challenges, since he needs to eat a nutritious diet.

The Resource Center offers more than just nutritious food, too. There are extra resources for neighbors in need, like employment assistance and training, children’s clothing assistance, and help with utilities.

Despite the challenges she and her husband are facing, Debbie is hopeful. “We’re here now, and it’s all great. We’re going to get through it.”

Debbie’s hopeful because of friends like you! You make it possible for neighbors to find stability and hope during difficult times. Thank you for helping to make this possible.

Link to Next Story: “You’re Making a Huge Difference.”