Brent has been coming to his local food bank for the last 6.5 years. When he first started coming to the food bank, he was in a bad situation.
He was in between jobs and living in an emotionally abusive environment. He found an escape from that environment by spending more time at the food bank, volunteering.
“He found an escape from that environment by spending more time at the food bank, volunteering.”
At first, he was helping to restock the shelves of the grocery store. But now, most of his volunteer shifts are behind the counter, serving coffee and snacks to his fellow clients.
He still struggles to make ends meet, as an injury keeps him from working full time. But now he has found a community of people who have helped to build his confidence and a sense of purpose.
When asked how food banking had impacted his life, Brent responded, “It actually helped me out of a dark place in my life. It made me realize that I don’t have to be there. I’ve made lots of friends here. It’s my extended family now.”
Submitted by The Mississauga Food Bank Link opens a new windowas a part of the 25 Years of Changing Lives Gallery.
Thank you to Hunger Action Month sponsor, Cargill Canada!