Pam is a proud mother and grandmother who was passionate about her career as a Certified Nursing Assistant until an injury meant an early, forced retirement.
“I hurt my shoulder and then that was it. I couldn’t work anymore. I really was heartbroken, but it was just the hand I was dealt, ” Pam shared.
And because of her early retirement, Pam isn’t able to receive her full benefits. She described, “I had to retire earlier than I wanted, so I only get 80 percent of my benefits. It’s not a lot.”
With her limited, fixed income, Pam began to struggle financially. The little bit she receives gets put towards bills and there isn’t much left for other necessities like food.
That’s why the Mobile Pantry at St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church, a Second Harvest Partner Agency, has been a huge relief to Pam and other neighbors in West Tennessee.
“This is a small town and in small towns, you help your neighbors. I am proud to call this place home,” Pam said.
Pam is not alone. Currently, 1 in 8 Middle and West Tennesseans, including 1 in 7 children do not have reliable access to food. That’s why this #GivingFoodDay we’re excited to announce that all gifts made on Tuesday, November 29 will TRIPLE to provide an incredible 12 meals for every dollar donated.