Her name is Mary, but to us at Feeding Hands she is affectionately known as Motel Mary. Every month Feeding Hands delivers food to her at her motel room. Every month as I drive into the parking lot of the motel, she is in the window of her room, just waiting. As I back into the parking spot to unload the boxes and bags, the door opens and there she is.
Mary has no family. Her only source of income is Social Security, but almost all that pays for her motel room – her home – and for her phone. In the past six months or so, she was finally approved for food stamps. She gets $150 a month and orders from the ShopRite site on her phone. $150 doesn’t go very far, especially when you have to pay for the food to be delivered. Her room has a motel sized refrigerator and microwave. I always bring her a box that Feeding Hands volunteers have packed specifically for people who only have a microwave. She always pulls the box open while I am still standing there in her doorway, so excited for what surprises may be inside. And then she always starts to cry. They are tears of joy and just so much gratitude.
Our staff and volunteers are tireless in providing care and nutrition to our guests. Giving financially to our mission is just one way you can get involved. Your donation helps us make your community a better place, one cart of groceries served with a smile at a time.
