With her family trying to get by on one income, Crystal wasn’t sure her young daughter would get to experience a Thanksgiving meal. Thanks to friends like you, they’ll be able to celebrate around a full and festive table.
Thanksgiving has been feeling bittersweet for Crystal and her daughter Eva.
Little Eva has a mouthful of new teeth, but Crystal has been worried that there might not be a holiday meal for her to try them on. Crystal shares that she lost her job waitressing, and while her husband is still working, his salary is just enough to pay the family’s bills every month. There isn’t much left for food.
“Our budget is really tight every month,” says Crystal.
With the holidays coming up, she knew she needed a little extra help. So Crystal visited a food distribution and was able to bring home the food she needed to make sure her family would have a festive holiday meal this year.
“We probably wouldn’t be doing Thanksgiving if it weren’t for this,” Crystal explains. “This means we get to have a nice meal as a family, which we wouldn’t be able to afford otherwise.”
Crystal not only got a turkey for the family, she also got holiday sides — carrots, green beans, stuffing, and mashed potatoes.
“I’m proud that for Eva … we’ll be able to share what the holidays are all about: family,” she says.
Stories like this are true for families across Vermont and around the country. Because of your care for your community, neighbors still recovering from the impacts of the pandemic will be able to enjoy a nourishing meal this holiday season. Thank you!
Support neighbors during this difficult time, if you can. Give help.
Are you in need of help? We’re here. Get help.
Help get food to neighbors who need it. Volunteer.
Having been on the receiving end of help himself over the years, Michael, the cook at Mustard Seed in St. Johnsbury is giving back by making sure his neighbors have a nourishing meal and a warm place to chat.
Bob and Barb are Vermont farmers with a passion for growing and sharing one staple, nutrient-dense crop with their community: potatoes. They also partner with Vermont Foodbank to make sure their local potatoes are available to neighbors experiencing hunger.
Glenn is one of Vermont Foodbank’s all-star drivers, and for him, work is personal. Having faced hard times himself, Glenn brings empathy and care that resonate with every neighbor he meets. Watching him work, it’s clear—he doesn’t just deliver food. He delivers connection and hope, with a side of humor that lightens the mood and makes every interaction genuine.
