Texas
Since 2004, Edward’s life has been a near-constant struggle. Shortly after losing his job due to a chronic illness, he also received temporary custody of his ex-girlfriend’s four children. He has since drained his savings, and cannot get by solely with the assistance of food stamps and modest disability pay. Faced with virtually no income and a newfound family to feed, Edward began to search for help.
He contacted the San Antonio Food Bank for support. Through the food bank, he found out about local food services offered at a church—where he now receives groceries two Thursdays each month.
“It’s been a blessing because it gets me through the week,” Edward explains. With the food he receives, Edward creates weekly menus for the kids—with rice and beans, he makes chalupas; with chicken and ham, he makes sandwiches.
Edward grew up in a poor family and learned from his mother that children always come first. He holds true to this lesson today, and when food supply is low, he waits for the children to eat first and then eats their leftovers. He does not believe in letting his children go hungry—he will go without before he sends his children to bed with empty stomachs.
Edward is scheduled to have surgery on his knees and ankles, which will address his chronic health problems. It is his hope that they will heal smoothly so he can gain his strength back to go back to work. In the meantime, his local food pantry and the assistance he receives through food stamps help him get by.
Find out more about the
San Antonio Food Bank
.