In response to a recent fundraising appeal, I got this e-mail:
"Hi, Gloria, My name is Susan. I wish there was some way that I could donate, but I can't even give my time right now. I go to one of your Mobile Foodshare sites at a church on Fern Street (in West Hartford) twice a month, and it's not easy, but I thank you and God everyday to have the opportunity to get the little I can have. A lot of the food I can't accept because a year ago I had colon cancer and I have to be very careful what I eat. Most of the time I'm supposed to stay gluten free, but I can't afford the things I need. My husband left me last August when I was half way through my recovery from the surgery and it has been a struggle for me every day since then. I go to work - I'm a crossing guard in West Hartford - and come home and go to bed most days. I figure it's better than thinking about being hungry.
"I have sworn to myself that when I am able to get back on my feet that I am going to do some volunteer work for Foodshare, but until then, I just can only say thank you for everything your organization has done to help me and so many others."
What mixed emotions I have reading Susan's e-mail. I'm sad for her and her personal stuggles. I'm angry at a society that entrusts her to protect our children on their way to school but cannot make sure she has the care she needs in her times of trouble. And her positive attitude and hope also makes me hopeful for the future - a future when we don't heare more stories like hers.
So, Susan, you're welcome. And thank you for your message which keeps all of us at Foodshare motivated and focused on both the immediate task at hand - getting healthy food to people in need - and the longer range goal of ending hunger!
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