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When Jodi visits her son and grandson, preparing a meal is one way she says, “I love you.”

“The way [my family] showed affection was through food. If I cook for you…I’m doing it because I care about you,” she explained.

Since Jodi found the courage to leave an unsafe relationship, her life has taken a turn for the better. Now, she lives alone and relies on Social Security disability income.

But it isn’t always possible to afford enough food.

“I’ve had to learn to live within my means,” she said.

A key resource for Jodi is the Grimes Storehouse Food Pantry. She’s especially grateful for the protein she receives, which would otherwise be one of the most expensive items to buy.

“I can do so many things with the chicken,” she explained. “I put it in the Crock-Pot or I make chicken salad sandwiches.”

“It’s been a ripple effect of good things,” Jodi continued.  Food, meaningful community and opportunities to give back are all within reach at the food pantry. She plans to volunteer delivering food to anyone who can’t make it to the distribution.

“You feel a part of something,” she said.

We agree — hunger relief unites and uplifts all of us.