Summer CSA produce box helps family recover from COVID losses
August 25, 2022
The COVID-19 virus devastated Michelle’s family finances. While caring for her family – her son came down with COVID first, then her mom, and then her boyfriend – she had to take off from work, but had no PTO benefits remaining. “I’m not back on track, and this has been since May. I’m really trying to get into the swing of things,” she said.
She was able to pick up supplemental food for her family at the Food Bank of Delaware’s Healthy Pantry Center in Newark, and she learned about our summer produce program.
Michelle signed up to participate in the weekly CSA [Community Supported Agriculture]. Each week she receives a box that contains fresh fruits and vegetables, mainly those grown at the Food Bank’s Newark campus.
”It’s helped us tremendously – fresh quality fruits and vegetables. My 7-year-old is more willing to try fresh vegetables. I can sneak in zucchini,” Michelle said. “The timing is impeccable.”
While she is now able to work part-time at her receptionist job, she encourages others to look into the Food Bank’s programs. “I suggest people reach out. It is a real blessing. If you need help, there is no shame. It’s OK to ask for help when you need it.”
To learn more about the Food Bank’s hunger-fighting programs, click here.