Food is foundational. It fuels our bodies and powers our focus and forward motion in life. But when it’s scarce, just living day to day can feel overwhelming.
“I was freshly divorced and homeless, having just moved out of the home we shared,” Amandia recalls. “I was also unemployed, as the job I was working was seasonal.” Like so many of the 6,914 Individuals who came to Interfaith Outreach last year, Amandia was desperate for immediate help.
“The food shelf helped me put food on the table when my kids and I really had nothing. I have always been the support system for the people in my personal life,” Amandia said. “It was great to finally have a support system of my own. The staff and volunteers at Interfaith are like family. When you are in a position where you need the kind of help that Interfaith offers, many times you are judged and treated like you are looking for a handout. Interfaith never made me feel that way and always welcomed me with open arms.”
Beyond food, Amandia craved a future of independence and security for herself and her children. “I am grateful for the case managers at Interfaith who helped me figure out how to go back to school – then the employment team worked with me to expand my income and confidence.”
Amandia and her kids now have the support they need and are working toward future goals. “Interfaith Outreach is not just another run-of-the-mill nonprofit,” Amandia said. “This place changes lives. I am closer to independence than I have ever been. They really helped me get on track.”