My Experience At The Dawson County Food Bank
A person, such as myself, doesn’t usually like to admit when they need help. The thought of running out of food between pay days was getting concerning to me that one fall day a few years ago. I was too proud to ask for money for groceries from family, nor did I want my friends to know we were struggling. My options were few and far between. So, I swallowed my pride and drove to the food bank.
Upon arriving, I was so nervous, I didn’t even want to get out of my car. Finally after debating for over 10 minutes, I got out and walked in. I was greeted by Jean at the desk. I have known her for many years and it was nice to see her face when I came in. I told her my situation, she smiled at me, handed me the application and told me to fill it out the best I could. I was still nervous at this point, thinking we made too much money to receive help, but I continued filing it out anyway.
After I completed the application, Jean looked it over and had me sign the back on the line where I would be shopping for the groceries for that month. I was so relieved, she told me everyone needs help once in a while and that was what the food bank was there for. I thanked her numerous times if I do recall, and sighed a breath of relief at the same time.
A really nice gal gave me a shopping cart, and I followed her to the back of the food bank to shop. She was so kind and helpful, and told me her story as well. I was very relaxed with her as we went through the isles and got what I could for my family. She even gave me some treats for my grandson! She led me to the front and told me to help myself to whatever was in the front of the food bank as well. I think I was still thanking her and Jean by the time I got the cart out the front door.
I was so happy to know I had enough food to feed my family until we got paid, and the experience was tip top. I started recommending the food bank to people I knew, who may need to utilize their services as well. I came back a few times that first year and never had a bad experience. The volunteers cared and it showed, no judgment upon you, always smiling, caring and I always felt a sense of peace after leaving.
When money was more plentiful, I would give back to the food bank, so another family in need could have the resources they offered as well. I have since returned to the food bank to use the services a handful of times this last year, as it has been the hardest my family has gone through in a while. Amber is there now, as Jean fell ill, and she is just as nice and friendly. Everyone there works amazingly hard, and they are true saints, helping those who need that extra little bit of help. Sometimes the world needs wonderful people to make the ones who are down and out, feel like there is hope yet.
I praise everyone there, you are angles in disguise and should not go unrecognized for your services to our community.
Thank you Dawson County Food Bank, you are amazing!
This blog was written by: Tiena Kinsey
Tiena recently joined Glendive Broadcasting as our Director of Traffic.
