We met Sidney while he was waiting in line at our food pantry on 31st Ave and Thomas in Phoenix. Despite everything he’s been through, he still has a positive attitude. A proud Vietnam veteran, Sidney was a nurse in the Air Force who served both our country and his fellow servicemen and women in his care.
Sidney continued his profession as a nurse after his Air Force career ended. He compassionately helped others until his PTSD and the effects of his stroke became too much, forcing him to retire early.
Sidney lives on disability now. He tries to avoid crowds and has trouble with loud noises. He relies on help from St. Mary’s Food Bank which means he relies on you, our generous donors.
“Before I got help from St. Mary’s, I was barely surviving,” he said. “I would go a long time without eating.”
His story is hard to hear, but your help is making a big impact on his life!
Sidney went home with about 70 pounds of great food that day. At-risk seniors, like Sidney, receive a special “senior food box” with nutritious food that they can’t afford on their own. The food box comes with nonperishable high protein and low sodium items such as canned fruits and vegetables, beans, rice, protein, and pasta. It also includes a block of cheese.
Sidney and everyone who comes to St. Mary’s for help also receives meat, dairy, bread, and fresh produce. We were even able to provide food for his pup, thanks to PetSmart’s pet food donation program. With gratitude, Sidney said, “thank you.”
