Maria, a mother of two, had always worked hard to provide for her family. But when her hours were cut, putting food on the table became nearly impossible. Some nights, she skipped meals so her kids could eat first. Through United Way’s Food Coalition of Morgan County, Maria learned about a mobile food pantry operating in her neighborhood. Not only did she receive fresh produce and pantry staples, but she also discovered culturally familiar foods her children loved. “The first time I opened a food box and saw rice and beans—foods we grew up with—I cried,” Maria shared. “It felt like home.” Now, Maria doesn’t have to choose between paying rent and feeding her kids. The support she found has turned her kitchen back into a place of nourishment and comfort.
Diego, a quiet high school sophomore, often felt overlooked in school and in the community. His parents worked long hours, leaving him to take care of his younger siblings most evenings. When Diego joined a youth leadership program supported by United Way, everything changed. For the first time, he had a safe space to share his experiences and ideas. He began speaking at Action Team meetings, where community leaders listened to his perspective on youth resources. “People cared about what I had to say,” Diego explained. “It made me feel like I could make a difference.” With new confidence, Diego helped shape an after school program for younger students. Today, he’s a mentor himself, encouraging others to raise their voices.