Pantry Stories

Each family who visits the pantry has a unique set of circumstances and tales to share. We're grateful to play a role in each and every one of their journeys. Read their stories.
Crisis to Catalyst: How a Near-death Diagnosis Becomes a Second Chance
Meet Henry. Henry’s story is a heartfelt example of how community and kindness can make a world of difference during tough times. After suffering a stroke on July 20, 2022, Henry’s life took an unexpected turn. He lost his job as a manager at an Asian restaurant on Hilliard Rome Road, and without disability assistance, he had to rely on savings to get by. When those funds ran low, a friend introduced him to the pantry seven months ago.

​From the moment Henry walked through the pantry doors, he felt the warmth and care of the people there. “When I first came to the pantry, I could feel that everyone was very friendly. It touched my heart to see that we do have quite a lot of caring people in this world, especially in Hilliard,” said Henry.

As he reflected on his journey, Henry realized that his stroke had given him a new perspective on life. “I used to take life for granted,” he admitted. Wanting to give back to the community that had supported him, Henry decided to start volunteering at the pantry, and he’s already volunteered half a dozen times. “I have a second chance at life. I’d better treasure it and do something useful and meaningful. It makes me happy to be able to help others in need.”
Karen's Story: "It's Hard to Ask
​for Help"
At the Hilliard Food Pantry Plus, every week brings a diverse tapestry of families, each with their own unique circumstances and tales to share. We’re grateful to play a role in each and every one of their journeys.

We’d like to introduce Karen, who first visited the food pantry seven years ago.

“I first needed to use a food pantry when I lived in a different city as a newly divorced mother of two. I could not make ends meet. Now, we live paycheck to paycheck and sometimes that money does not go far enough. All it takes is one unexpected car repair, missed days due to illness, or any emergency to not be able to put food on the table,” said Karen.

“It’s very hard to ask for help when you need it. The people at the pantry are always so welcoming. You are treated with dignity and respect. I’m thankful to have the pantry here in Hilliard,” she said.

Besides getting help with food, Karen has taken part in other pantry programs. “The classes offered by the food pantry have been very helpful. I’ve learned new recipes to use with products from the pantry and it has allowed me to stretch my food budget.”

She also volunteers at the pantry to give back. “I love volunteering at the food pantry. I volunteer to give back to the pantry that has given so much to my family. As someone who uses the pantry, I feel uniquely tuned in to the families. I can offer information on resources the pantry has, and I understand when they're having a tough time. Volunteering makes me feel I'm not just reaching out for help, but contributing to the success of the pantry,” she said.

​Karen has a final message for the donors and supporters who make the Hilliard Food Pantry Plus possible: “I want you to know what a lifesaver the pantry is. Your contributions make a difference in so many lives. People are not going to bed hungry, their electric is on during the cold winters, and their legal issues are addressed. The pantry wants you to thrive, not just barely survive.”