Hershey’s, Hope, and Help with United Food Bank and Matthew’s Crossing
Tracy is a devoted mother of two adult children. Her son lives with her, while her daughter resides next door. The family has faced numerous challenges, but their bond and resilience have always guided them through.
Both Tracy and her son receive disability benefits, a crucial lifeline that helps them manage their daily needs. Despite their financial struggles, they remain positive and grateful for the support they receive. One of their greatest sources of gratitude is the fresh food they get from Matthew’s Crossing, a partner pantry of United Food Bank. “We are so grateful for all the fresh foods that we get. It makes a huge difference in our lives,” shares Tracy. Through United Food Bank’s grocery rescue program and other fresh food initiatives, partner pantries can help serve the community while raising awareness of the importance of a nutritious lifestyle.
Tracy and her family have a unique tradition that brings them comfort during difficult times. Whenever things get tough, they place a Hershey’s chocolate bar with almonds in the freezer. This simple act is a tribute to Tracy’s late husband, the children’s father, who always believed that a bit of chocolate could make any situation better. “It’s our way of feeling like he’s watching over us, giving us strength to get through.”
Recently, Tracy and her son faced a major crisis. They were evicted from their home, a devastating blow that left them feeling lost and uncertain about their future. However, they turned to their cherished tradition for solace. “We put a Hershey’s chocolate bar with almonds in the freezer, hoping for a sign that everything would be okay,” Tracy recalled. Within two days, Tracy and her son found a new place to live, and they believe the chocolate bar played a part in this stroke of luck, giving them hope and a sense of guidance from above. “We really think it helped us find a place so quickly. It’s like a small miracle,” Tracy said with a smile.
Throughout their trials, the support from Matthew’s Crossing and United Food Bank has been invaluable. The food pantry has helped to provide Tracy and her family with fresh, nutritious food, easing the burden of their financial struggles. “Matthew’s Crossing has been such a blessing. The food we receive from them keeps us healthy and takes some of the stress away,” Tracy said. Equally significant has been the contribution of United Food Bank, ensuring a steady supply of wholesome food, including proteins, vegetables, and grocery rescue items. Despite the hardships they’ve faced, Tracy and her family remain optimistic about the future. Their strong bond and the support of their community have given them the strength to persevere. Tracy continues to cherish the small traditions that bring her family closer together and honor the memory of her late husband.
“Life can be really hard, but we have each other, and we have our little ways of coping,” Tracy said. “And as long as we have that, we can get through anything.”
Tracy’s story is a testament to the power of family, tradition, and community support in overcoming life’s challenges. Through the darkest times, Tracy and her family have found light and hope, proving that with love and resilience, they can weather any storm.
United Food Bank is proud to support over 120 different food pantries across Arizona. To share your story and experiences at one of them, feel free to fill out this form!
Written by KC Raguay
