Jessica has a hard time getting out of bed in the morning, but she gives back to the Rescue Mission Alliance Valley Food Bank by volunteering on its busier days. Jessie, as family and friends call her, is a single mother who struggles with chronic back pain and severe depression, lives in a subsidized housing complex and is on disability. She comes each month after her food stamps run out to get fresh fruits, vegetables, dairy products and bread from the pantry to feed her family, which she says can last her a week. As a longer-term food pantry client, she has told others about the pantry. “There is help available for people, if they want the help,” she said.

Jessie loves to help sort the Trader Joe’s donation—some items require counting, while others are weighed. She can work at her pace, taking breaks when needed to rest her back. Jessie has a great sense of humor and can often be found sharing a funny story. Thanks Jessie for your help!