At the start of the pandemic, Cindy’s father passed away and she retired early to care for her mother. Both Cindy and her mother are now on a fixed income and feeling the pinch of inflation. To help make ends meet, they’ve been getting food from LIFT-UP Food Pantry (a Hunger Relief Partner of Food Bank of the Rockies) in New Castle for the last few months. This is the first time Cindy has needed food assistance, and she reached out to share her positive experience. Here is what she said:
“From the first time we walked in, the volunteers have treated us with such respect! We were genuinely welcomed and told repeatedly that they were glad we came. They explained the process well and told us to take our time shopping and selecting what we need (even going out of their way to find gluten-free items, due to our allergies). When we leave, they always say, ‘Please come back and see us again.’ I have noticed that they show that kind of respect to every single person who walks in the door. It truly warms our hearts to see this stellar group of volunteers so graciously giving of their time!
“I have never needed assistance before and was very hesitant to go get ‘free food.’ The volunteers’ kind demeanor, without judgment, really put us at ease and made us feel like they truly care and really ARE glad we came! Thank you so very much for your well-run and organized nonprofit. You provide such a valuable service and do it with such kindness and grace! Thank you for making our lives a little easier.”