We met Manuel and Hilda; a sweet, elderly couple, when they came to get help at the St. Mary’s Food Bank location in Surprise. With tears in her eyes, Hilda expressed her gratitude for the food she received. The couple kindly shared with us some of the recent challenges they’ve been facing.
“Meme and I have been married for 50 years and we’ve seen good and bad times. These are some of the toughest times we’ve experienced,” Hilda said.
Both retired, Manuel and Hilda are on fixed incomes. With the rising costs of food, housing, and gas, the couple struggle to make ends meet. They are raising their 13-year-old grandson and constantly worries if he’s getting enough to eat. “It’s more important for him to eat than us,” Hilda said.
During this visit, the couple were so appreciative and relieved to receive a cart full of nutritious food. They were provided with fresh fruits and vegetables, bread, protein, and non-perishable items like rice and beans. Not only is the healthy food is so important for their grandson, but also crucial for Manuel.
“I am type 2 diabetic and have a heart condition,” Manuel said. “What brings us here is that we normally have enough food for the whole month, but with rent and food prices so high, we can’t always make it.”
Your generosity has made it possible for this family to get access to nourishing food when they need a helping hand.
“I thank God for St. Mary’s Food Bank and the donors who give to them,” Hilda said. “There are so many good people and we’re SO thankful.”
