Hunger has a face and a name. Their stories are all too familiar in our communities. Meet Bert from Synder County, who started coming to our food pantry partner Middlecreek Area Community Center this summer. An employee of a large local company that recently shut its doors unexpectedly, he is finding himself unemployed for the first time in 41 years. He describes the feeling he first had when the company’s news was released as “pure shock.”
“You don’t know where to go or what to do. When you’re used to getting up and going to work every morning… same place for that many years, and all of a sudden it’s not there.”
Using a service like the Food Bank is something Bert never thought he would have to do. He admits openly that he “felt bad” the first time he came. But that feeling of embarrassment quickly dissipated.
“Once you’re here, everyone makes you feel welcome. It’s a real big help…Everything is good.”
Bert’s favorite foods that the pantry provides are the meats– chicken, fish, pork, sausage patties. “All stuff you can use, and it helps out greatly with the grocery bill.”
When asked what Bert would say to fellow former coworkers, in a similar situation, who perhaps are too proud to use the Food Bank, Bert comments,“Gotta take the time and push your pride aside…Don’t be afraid to look out there for help… Just a real good thing for the community to have…Thank God for places like this.”
Hunger isn’t selective. Our community is better when we join hands and help. To find out how you can join us in the fight to end hunger, click here.