Candy is a hardworking, loving mother. Her family is at the heart of everything she does. When she's not at work, she cares for her 19-year-old daughter who has autism.
Her youngest daughter, Vicky, is a determined high school student. Vicky takes classes at a technical school and is a mentor at a preschool. She is also searching for a part-time job.
Candy started working at a large retailer 22 years ago. Her hourly wage is hard to live on. Residing in a rural area brings its own set of challenges. With few job opportunities nearby, Candy has limited options to seek better-paying work. Her income is slightly above the threshold to qualify for food assistance or Medicaid benefits.
In addition to paying for utilities and her home, her family has accumulated medical debt. Candy pays $800 every month for medical bills. Little is left for groceries.
“Regardless of how much you try, you can never get ahead,” Candy shares. Yet, her love for her family keeps pushing her forward, even on the hardest days.
Her oldest daughter is a selective eater due to her autism, and Candy works hard to ensure both her children have the meals they need to thrive.
“When it comes down to the nitty-gritty, I do what I need to do for my kids.”
Candy’s local food pantry has become a place where she finds not only food but also kindness and hope. The pantry helps her fill in the gaps when her paycheck doesn't stretch far enough.
She loads her shopping cart with meat, dairy, pantry staples, bakery items, and even hygiene items that can be expensive at the store.
Thank you for supporting your Foodbank and families like Candy’s. We couldn’t do this work without you!