“I have to decide on paying bills or buying fewer groceries.”

Silvia, a mother of five, says it’s been a struggle at times to afford groceries. With the newest addition to her family, 2-week-old Elsa, and her children out of school for the summer, she needs more food to provide more meals at home.

Silvia is grateful to be able to pick up groceries from a Loaves & Fishes/Friendship Trays pantry on her lunch break from work. She explains that nothing goes to waste – noting the vegetables, fruit, pasta, peanut butter, bread, and even diapers. She tells us when tomatoes are becoming overripe, “I boil them, make a sauce, and refrigerate it for later.”

Too often, parents in our community are forced to choose between buying groceries or paying bills. Fortunately, Silvia found support through the Loaves & Fishes/Friendship Trays Pregnancy Referral Program, which allows clients to receive a week’s worth of groceries for the duration of their pregnancy and up to four weeks postpartum. Whenever Silvia hears of friends or family that could use the help, she encourages them to schedule a pantry visit, and tells them “All of the food is useful, especially during a pregnancy.”

In need of food assistance? Call 704-523-4333, we’re here to help.