Hunger can be experienced differently depending upon a family’s unique circumstance. Hunger isn’t always a dire situation in which families have nothing to eat, but instead can often be seen in the subtle choices a family must make.
Meet Char. She’s 65, was raised in Barberton, and is a semi-retired house cleaner. Married with four grown children, Char will soon help her stepfather move in with her. Because of his age, it’s too difficult and worrisome for him to live on his own, and COVID-19 has exacerbated this.
Char has been picking up food from the Barberton Salvation Army for her stepfather for more than two years. Receiving pantry staples and fresh produce from the food program helps extend his social security, making planning his budget easier. Not only does it enable him to pay his other bills, but it offers him the opportunity to stay connected and engaged with others, which is important for a man his age.
“The food he receives from the pantry allows him to have a meal with his friends at the senior apartment complex where he lives,” explained Char. And though a simple meal with friends may not seem like much to some, for Char’s stepfather, it means the world.
Char is also connected to the Salvation Army; she’s been volunteering there for six years. Two times per week, she assists with food distributions, helps in the pantry and packs food orders. She enjoys interacting with the people she meets.
“It’s nice to give back because you never know when you’ll be in that situation.”