For Francis, the local food pantry has become more than a place to pick up groceries; it has become a source of support, connection, and hope for her family.
With two young children at home full-time and another who stays with her part of the year, Francis spends her days caring for her kids while her husband works for the county. Living on a single income has its challenges, especially during the summer months when school meals aren’t available.
“Yes, it’s a lot harder,” Francis explained. “It’s more food intake, and it’s a really big dip in our wallet.” The rising cost of childcare makes it difficult to consider outside work. That’s where the food pantry steps in to help. Francis and her family have been coming for about two years, usually visiting twice a month. “They usually help us out every single time that we need food,” she shared. “Honestly, it’s a big help in general.”
But for Francis, the pantry provides more than just food, it offers a sense of community. “People that come here are great. We all know each other, we’ve created bonds here. It’s more than just a pantry,” she said. “The connection here is actually a lot more than you think. We all help each other out. We take care of each other here.”
At Great Plains Food Bank, we know hunger is about more than just empty cupboards; it’s about stability, dignity, and belonging. Families like Francis’s remind us that food assistance is not only about filling plates, but also about strengthening communities.
“Honestly, with the pantry here, it shows how much we take care of each other,” Francis said. And thanks to the generosity of our donors, volunteers, and partners, that circle of care continues to grow.