Having grown up in the foster care system, Mandy was determined to make something of her life and was supporting herself through university by working two jobs.

At the start of her final year, she lost both jobs, and her life was thrown into crisis. With no family support, she sold everything she had but it was still not enough and she was unable to afford food or rent.

Mandy heard about a local food pantry. She explained, “I felt embarrassed and didn’t know who to turn to. I thought I could care for myself without anyone’s help, but then my life unexpectedly turned upside down. Receiving food assistance helped me use the little funds I had to cover my rent so I didn’t lose my home.

“The first proper meal I ate in a while was the best meal of my life! I have no idea what I would have done without the help to get me through that rough time. The Food Bank makes an impact in so many ways and one bag of groceries can change everything.”

Since then Mandy has been able to continue with her studies, find a stable job, and get her life back on track. Thanks to the support of friends like you, one bag or box of groceries really can make a difference.