A Box of Strawberries
Right now, more families in our community are feeling the strain of rising costs. Gas, rent, and groceries continue to stretch budgets, and for many neighbors, something has to give. Too often, it’s food.
That’s what brought Patricia to the Worthington Resource Pantry.
Patricia was working two jobs, doing everything she could to support herself and her young daughter. Even with steady income, after rent, utilities, and gas, there wasn’t enough left for groceries. At the same time, she was making the difficult decision to leave an abusive relationship and save for a safer place to live.
“It was one of the hardest times in my life,” she shared.
Walking into the Pantry for the first time, Patricia wasn’t sure what to expect. What she found was kindness. Volunteers welcomed her in, and as she shopped, her cart quickly filled with fresh, healthy food.
More than she expected.
And among those items was something small, but deeply meaningful — strawberries.
“I wasn’t able to afford strawberries at the store,” she said. “I was so excited to come home and surprise my daughter with her favorite fruit.”
It’s a simple moment, and it matters.
Moments like that bring relief, dignity, and a sense of normalcy during difficult times. During her visit, Patricia also connected with the Pantry’s Resource Center, leaving not just with food, but with a plan for what comes next.
Stories like Patricia’s are becoming more common. More working families are turning to the Pantry for the first time, facing impossible choices as everyday expenses continue to rise.
Because of this community, we are here to meet them.
Right now, your support goes even further.
Thanks to the generosity of the Bob and Tina Fisher Charitable Fund, every gift will be matched dollar for dollar, up to $5,000.
Your donation helps:
* Stock shelves with fresh, healthy food
* Connect families to additional resources and support
* Create moments of relief and joy for neighbors in difficult times