Martha thanks you

Martha’s pride for her great-grandson is clear from the moment she brings him up. After adopting *Sam when he was just seven months old, Martha does everything in her power to give him the best life possible.  

That’s why Martha is so grateful she can visit a Food Bank of Iowa partner pantry at Middle River Friends Church in Carlisle to stock up on nutritious food for her and Sam, now 4.  

“It’s nice to not have to go hunting in the store for [groceries] with money I don’t have,” Martha says. 

Martha, 66, has an autoimmune disease and has recently been diagnosed with cancer. She receives Social Security disability income and some financial subsidy for her great-grandson’s care — but her budget remains tight. 

Sam was diagnosed with autism and requires a special diet, so Martha must be selective about what food she brings home. She doesn’t qualify for SNAP benefits, and soon, will no longer be eligible for WIC. 

“[At the food pantry] we’re getting meat and milk…this is something we can use to put together for a meal.” 

Martha says she is always greeted with kindness and respect at the food pantry, and the visits help her fill the gaps in her budget. 

“Thank you,” she says to donors like you. “It’s so appreciated, and it’s needed for so many people.” 

*Name has been changed to protect privacy.