Grandmother Finds Vital Support at Salvation Army Food Bank

Grace (not her real name), a dedicated grandmother, has found herself in a similar situation to many seniors. She is relying on a fixed income while caring for her family. She admits that they have struggled to make ends meet in between pension cheques.

The Salvation Army food bank in St. George’s, Bermuda, is supporting Grace and her family to ensure they have everything they need food-wise.

“Food was scarce when relying on a fixed income that only arrives once a month,” Grace shares. “Without The Salvation Army, this family would have gone without the necessary food.”

Grace remembers that asking for help was initially not an easy task for her on a personal level.

“Without The Salvation Army, this family would have gone without the necessary food.”

“I felt so bad for coming. I kept telling myself there are people whose need is greater than ours. I felt we were taking food from others,” she says. However, the warmth she encountered when she first arrived at the food bank took her doubts and fears away.

“When we arrived, we were welcomed by friendly faces,” Grace recalls.

Going to the food bank has turned into a social occasion as well. Grace meets for coffee at The Salvation Army with other guests who are also accessing the food bank. The monthly food pick-up has given Grace a chance to feel connected with her community.

“It is a social outing for us once a month when we pick up the food hamper,” Grace says. “Coffee places here are limited and expensive, so it is nice that The Salvation Army offers this social gathering for the community.”

“We now always have a place to go when our cabinets and fridge become empty.”

The Salvation Army provides Grace with more than just meals. It is a safe space, where there is no judgement, and where support is always available. Most importantly, the food bank’s assistance provides Grace’s family with a critical financial safety net.

“These groceries from the food bank cover the gap period between our fixed income funds. We now always have a place to go when our cabinets and fridge become empty.”

Feeling grateful for the food, companionship and understanding she receives, Grace knows she can count on The Salvation Army during tough times.

“I’m thankful for the food, the safe space, and for the community,” she says.

By Juan Romero