Stories of Hunger

When over 150 people brave the rain to come to a mobile food pantry at Red Star Food Pantry, the wait can be rather long.

The event was held indoors with a large gym containing a full-sized basketball court. People lined up around the court and back out to the main room where the food was given out. Kevin Sexton, director of the pantry, had a microphone in hand talking to the people in attendance.

Ray and Debra were a few of the first ones in line. They had been there a full four hours before the event started arriving at 1 p.m. Debra said they got there early due to riding with a friend because their vehicle had broken down.

They were both at the mobile food pantry because of limited food in their households. Ray has had multiple surgeries and has suffered through multiple strokes so the food he receives helps out.

“This is great. You all are doing God’s work,” Ray said.

Not all people showed up as early as Ray and Debra did. Daisy and her daughter Wanda, showed up closer to when the event started at 5 p.m.

Even though Wanda thinks that people getting there super early is a bit crazy, she understands why they do it.

Wanda and Daisey were both seated where the back of the line was. Wanda was in a metal knee brace due to knee surgery. She had her grandson wait in line for her because she couldn’t.

Money is tight in their households along with food. Wanda is drawing disability while Daisey, who is 93, is collecting social security.

“This extra food helps us out a lot. Thank you to the people who donate and help out,” they both said.