At La Iglesia El Buen Pastor in Durham, Mobile Market coordinator Walkiria Castillo introduced us to Gladys, one of the neighbors who attends the Mobile Market each month to pick up free groceries, fresh produce, and baked goods. Gladys uses the food items she receives to supplement her family’s food budget as she takes care of the nine people in her household. She used to shop at a local grocery store, but when they closed, it left Gladys and her neighbors in a food desert. “The Mobile Market is a lot of help for a lot of families that really need the help,” says Gladys. The food that is distributed to Gladys and other families and individuals each month at La Iglesia El Buen Pastor Mobile Market is provided through your support by Inter-Faith Food Shuttle.
Gladys and Biron
In telling her story, Gladys is initially somewhat shy. Walkiria translates for Gladys who speaks little English. As the conversation continues, Gladys begins to speak a little more freely. She tells us that her household includes three adult children, and a daughter in high school. She also has some young grandchildren, including her grandson Biron. All the adults in the family work outside the home, except for Gladys, who has her hands full caring for the members of her large family. Still, they all have a difficult time making ends meet. She says she’s especially grateful for the produce she receives at the Mobile Market. It reminds her of the fresh fruits and vegetables she used to cook with in her native Honduras.
And then Gladys tells us that she doesn’t just feed her family members with the food she receives at the church. For the last few years, she’s been preparing nightly meals for many in her neighborhood who are experiencing homelessness. Many of these people are living at the site of the closed Los Primos supermarket. Often the food Gladys receives at the Mobile Market she “pays forward” by giving out to those in greater need. Frequently, the food Gladys provides is the only meal many of these individuals receive. on any given day. “The things God gives to us, we’re supposed to share with others,” she says by way of explanation. In this way, Gladys extends the work of the Food Shuttle out into her own community.
Right now, you have a terrific opportunity to help families like Gladys’ with your support through our Spring Match Challenge. Now through May 31, you can double your impact as all gifts will be matched, dollar for dollar up to $105,000, thanks to our generous funders including the Mead Family Foundation and SOLV Energy. Don’t miss this chance to build stronger families and healthier communities with your support. Give today at www.FoodShuttle.org/Spring23.