My name is Holly, and for most of my adult life I have been transient. I also suffer with mental health and physical problems. I am unable to work and found it very hard to settle down.
For the last couple of years I have found permanent housing. I thought I would be able to do everything on my own.
I was able to pay my rent, phone, and medications with the little money I had. Food was always last. Being a type 1 diabetic that takes insulin every day, eating properly is very important.
I soon realized that I could not do everything on my own.
“I found a sense of community. I was meeting new people and gave me a good reason to get out of my house and not isolate myself.”
I went to the closest food bank to me and soon found out I was receiving more then help with my food. I found a sense of community.
I was meeting new people and it gave me a good reason to get out of my house and not isolate myself.
At this point in my life I was in a bad relationship. The woman who patiently listens to everyone and their problems every Thursday offered me an opportunity to give back to the community and separate myself from my partner at the time. I was given the gift to help every week with deliveries.
Now, not only have I made new friends, found community, and received help with food in my fridge, I was also given the gift to give back. I no longer just have a place to live, I have a home!
Submitted by the North York Harvest Food Bank Link opens a new window as a part of the 25 Years of Changing Lives Gallery.
Thank you to Hunger Action Month sponsor, Cargill Canada!