If you or someone you know is struggling, please call 2-1-1 or visit their website for help.
MEET JOAN
Joan never imagined she would be raising her three grandchildren alone.
The sudden loss of her daughter was devastating, and just when she thought things couldn’t get harder, her husband passed away too. Now, Joan is the sole guardian of her three young grandchildren.
FACING THE STRUGGLES TOGETHER
Despite the challenges they face, Joan brings her grandchildren to West Midland Family Center’s Surplus Produce Program multiple times each week. This program has become a lifeline for them, providing fresh fruits and vegetables they otherwise couldn’t afford.
But Joan faces a unique challenge. Her late husband was a proud man and made her promise never to apply for public assistance, hoping that what he was able to leave behind would be enough. When that proved not to be the case, Joan found herself trying to honor his wishes while struggling to make ends meet.
A COMMUNITY OF SUPPORT
The West Midland Family Center Food and Clothing Depot has been more than just a source of nourishment for her and her grandchildren. It has provided a sense of community and connection, offering additional services and support that the family needs. The staff at WMFC have become an extended family, offering emotional support and resources to help Joan navigate her difficult circumstances.
Despite her financial struggles, she finds joy in baking with her grandchildren. Using some of the items they receive from the program, they create baked goods to share with the WMFC staff. These small acts of kindness reflect the love and resilience that Joan and her grandchildren embody every day.
OVERCOMING PRIDE TO SEEK HELP
Asking for help is never easy. The legacy of her husband’s wishes weighed heavily on her, making it difficult to seek the assistance she truly needed. However, through the encouragement of WMFC staff and seeing the positive impact on her grandchildren, Joan has learned that accepting help is not a sign of weakness but a step towards a better future for her family.
Joan’s story is a testament to the strength of the community and the importance of support systems like the West Midland Family Center. With their help, she and her grandchildren can face their challenges with hope and dignity, knowing they are not alone in their journey.
