There are so many stories behind all the people coming to the Interfaith Food Pantry. Kathy, a stay-at-home mom with three young children faced a real crisis when her husband decided to leave. With limited recent work experience and the need to work while her children in school, she began cleaning houses. She was struggling trying to make ends meet when one of her employers, a volunteer with the Interfaith Food Pantry, suggested coming to the Pantry. Kathy felt embarrassed to come on her own, so her employer made the appointment and came with her for the interview.
“One of the best things that ever happened to me was finding the Interfaith Food Pantry. I never felt uncomfortable coming here and they definitely did not make me feel like I was a charity case!” Kathy says the program gave her family the food they needed, which allowed her to use the little money she had to pay the rent. She was also able to get school supplies for her children from the “We’ve Got Your Back” program.
And then a light appeared at the end of her tunnel. She started working more and the courts granted her child support. She is now taking computer classes at County College of Morris and is planning to go back to school to finish her degree.
“I am so grateful the IFP was here for me during the year it took me to get back on my feet. If not for the Pantry, I never would have found out about the opportunities available for me at CCM. In the future, I hope to be the one who will be able to give back and help others!”
Clearly, your support and that of our many friends, was important in Kathy’s life, as it is for the many others we serve. We greatly appreciate your recent donation of 53 pounds of Back to School items, which will help us continue our work. Thank you for caring and reaching out!
With deep appreciation,
Rosemary Gilmartin
Executive Director