Beth has arrived at the Foodbank around 9am for a food distribution taking place later in the afternoon. She and hundreds of other cars wrapped around the block are waiting for the drive-thru to begin.

After a major health incident, Beth found herself on disability, living on a fixed income.

“I’ve been on my own since I was 17 years old, so I like to be independent. Having to go on disability was difficult.”

Beth reserved her limited resources for her mortgage, insurance and utilities, relying on her family to help supply her pantry with the necessary staples.

Then she learned local food programs in her area could offer some relief. “At first, it was very humbling, as I had always been self-supporting. And I was worried I was taking food off another person’s table. And then I just became grateful.”

Since Beth’s life has changed, she’s much more aware of the hardships others face. “Hunger is much more widespread than anybody realizes. And if someone can afford to donate food or money, they should know it’s going to people who actually need it; it’s not a wasted expense. And don’t ever think that what you’re doing is not necessary, because it is critical for a lot of us.”

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