Stories of Hunger

Many senior citizens rely on food distributed by Virgie’s Place, a food pantry in Kennett, Mo.

Beverly, who runs Virgie’s Place, said a good portion of the people she helps are elderly and live on county roads, making it difficult for them to get out to get food. That’s why Beverly and her team of volunteers are more than willing to deliver the food to them.

“I tell them if they don’t have transportation, tell us and we will get the food to you,” Beverly said. “Even though we are poor ourselves, we will get the food to them.”

Even Beverly’s volunteers consist mostly of senior citizens; one is currently battling cancer, but still manages to pick up food and deliver when needed.

Cars line up rather early in the small parking lot at Virgie’s Place for mobile food distributions in partnership with Southeast Missouri Food Bank. Beverly said there are some homeless individuals who will show up to get food as well.

“We try to serve as many people as we can in this area,” Beverly said. “This town is hurting and very poor, and a lot of people don’t have the resources.”

One of many in the line of cars for food was Sharon from Kennett. She was picking up food for her family and was thankful for everything that was given.

“I’m speaking on behalf of anyone that struggles, we appreciate it all,” Sharon said.

In addition to the deliveries made by Beverly and her volunteers, many in-home health workers dropped by to pick up food for their clients. Lacey has anywhere from six to 10 clients and said the food she takes to them is greatly appreciated.

“I am honestly grateful for these distributions because there are people who don’t have anything,” Lacey said.

From the line of cars to the volunteers delivering food, Virgie’s Place serves the people facing hunger in Kennett and the surround area, with Beverly leading the way.

One thing is certain about Beverly: She loves and cares about her community. Helping others is a lesson she learned from childhood.

 “My parents made me a community person growing up, doing commission work,” Beverly said. “You get up every day and say, I’m going to help somebody.”