For Sharon, the food distributions at Mead Food Bank help solve two problems: affording the basics on a tight budget and keeping herself safe during the COVID-19 pandemic.

A trip to the grocery store brings Sharon layers of stress. At 68, her retirement income is much smaller than it was during her two decades working as a City of Spokane employee. Her age also puts her at elevated risk for COVID-19 complications.

“These distributions have really been helpful. It keeps me from having to not only spend the money but also from going around a bunch of people for just the basics,” she said.

“These distributions have really been helpful. It keeps me from having to not only spend the money but also from going around a bunch of people for just the basics.”

Before the pandemic, Sharon had never visited a food bank before. Now, she’s not only using the food to help herself through this time but also sharing it with family and neighbors who could use a boost. She often shares the food she receives with her son, a father to three kids and a small business owner, as he’s seen his income drop significantly during the pandemic. Neighbors who’ve been hit hard by the crisis also are grateful for the food Sharon shares. “I don’t let any of it go to waste,” she said.

“For somebody that doesn’t have a lot of money or is no longer getting a paycheck, these are crucial for them. They’re so wonderful.”

As she waited in the long line of cars for the distribution to begin, Sharon expressed gratitude for the people who made the event possible. “Thank you very much. It’s very appreciated—I think probably by everybody that comes here. But I know I appreciate it, and the people I have shared it with really appreciate it,” she said. “I just think that this is a blessing. It really is.”