“We arrived at 2:15 a.m.,” says Kirsten. “I’ve never heard of it running out, but we don’t take that chance these days.”
She’s waiting her turn at Second Harvest’s Garde-manger mobile that visits Woodbury United Methodist Church in Cannon County. “It’s worth the wait.”
Although the food distribution doesn’t start until 9 a.m., Kirsten and others arrive early because they need the help so critically. You see, her life changed drastically after a serious fall.
Kirsten was an operator at a local waterpark before she sustained her injuries. Since she fell, she’s had a knee replacement plus 20 additional surgeries.
Her only income is disability assistance. She’s fortunate to have help with some of her bills, but Kirsten doesn’t qualify for SNAP (formerly known as food stamps) — her income is $7 over the limit.
“You can’t afford to live and buy groceries,” she says. “If I didn’t get help from Second Harvest, I wouldn’t be eating.”
Kirsten lives in Smithville with four people who also have disabilities. She makes the long drive to Woodbury to bring home enough nutritious food for everyone.
She knows the Mobile Pantry is only able to deliver fresh, healthy food because you choose to give, and she was excited to share her thanks. “We appreciate this very, very much,” Kirsten says on behalf of herself and her housemates. “Thank you.”
