"As a solo parent, it is often really hard to stretch my income across all the needs my family has. I am so thankful for the resources and assistance that is out there.  At the same time, it has taken it's toll on my sense of self-worth as a parent. Filling out application after application for assistance, proving my poverty so my kids can be fed can feel discouraging.  When I first heard about GNFP, I wasn't really interested in going to another reminder of how I was failing as a provider.  Then when my state assistance was reduced due to budget cuts, I struggled even more to get by.  I heard about the work-trade for meat option that they offer here and loved the sound of it.  It felt so much more like earning the food than a hand out.  As I spent hours up at the farm doing the work trade, I inadvertently witnessed the food pantry activities as well.  I was floored by how different it works here.  You don't just come and get your box or allotted food.  Everyone shows up as part of the team.  The first time I participated at the pantry was incredible.  We all worked as a team of volunteers, cleaning, prepping, unloading, sorting and gleaning.  No sense of "us and them" - the needy and the benefactors. There was not the attitude of scarcity and desperation that often comes with receiving hand outs.  I left with great food, enough to feed us extremely well for a week, and even more importantly, a sense of empowerment and hope.  This is the experience I have each time I come to GNFP.  There is a warmth, a sense of community, belonging and purpose that is so incredible.  I have built amazing friendships there.  I have learned to harvest my own meat, prepare healthy and alternative food for my kids and that I am not just a taker, I also bring my own value and skills to the table.  I wish that everyone who is where I was at knew about this incredible place.  It will change them inside and out"

 

Rebecca H.