Desi’s top priority has always been to provide for her family. She is a single mother who works full time, but even with a steady income, the rising cost of living makes it difficult to stretch her paycheck far enough. “It’s just that time of the year, I guess,” she explains of the extra costs for activities during the summer months. “I’m just low on food.”
“Between food and rent, it’s just hard to make ends meet.”
At home, Desi cares for her 4-year-old daughter. With a growing child to feed, the grocery bill adds up quickly. Add the extra cost of summer activities, and it can be difficult to afford everything the family needs.
That’s when Gloria Dei Food Pantry in Williston becomes a lifeline. Desi visits the pantry about once a month, making sure her family has the essentials. “Yeah, it helps stretch things,” she shares. “The rent is high here — it’s gotten higher. Between food and rent, it’s just hard to make ends meet.”
Desi also sees how vital the pantry, supplied by the Great Plains Food Bank, is for her neighbors. “I know a lot of people that use it. It’s definitely needed for sure,” she adds. Her story reflects our shared vision: to ensure our neighbors are nourished, our communities are strong, and no one is left behind.
With the compassion of friends like you, families like Desi’s find food as well as hope.