Kathy Wilkening.2

Kathy and her husband, Terry, are making this holiday season all about family — something you help make possible through your generous partnership. 

We met Kathy and her youngest son at Pella Community Food Shelf, a Food Bank of Iowa partner. Kathy says Terry recently switched jobs to travel less and spend more time at home with family, including their five sons ages 16, 12, 9, 7 and 3. 

“He thought family was more important, and it is, so I’m very proud of him for making that decision,” Kathy says.  

Kathy stays home to care for the couple’s youngest son until he’s old enough to attend school like his brothers.  

Last year, Terry made just $1,000 too much to qualify for SNAP benefits, so the family cut out extra expenses like sports for the boys just to keep enough food on the table.  

Thankfully, Kathy discovered the pantry and visits to supplement her food budget. 

“It’s wonderful here,” Kathy says. “The people are so welcoming and accepting.” 

Kathy is thankful for friends like you who make it possible for her and so many more neighbors to receive food this holiday season. 

“It’s a blessing,” she says. “It helps so much.”