66-year-old Hazel of Warrenton, GA receives a grocery cart full of nutritious food for the month.
You can see Hazel’s zest for life clearly reflected in her bright smile, carefully applied makeup and colorful clothing. What’s harder to see is that the 66-year-old resident of Warrenton, GA struggles with hunger since the loss of her son and her cancer diagnosis.
“When I came down with cancer my whole world changed,” Hazel remembers. “It was a big shock. At that point, I wanted to give up.”
After a lifetime of supporting herself, arthritis and asthma made it impossible for Hazel to continue working. She used to be able to rely on her son for help. But after he passed away a few years ago times got hard, and after her cancer diagnosis they got harder.
That’s when Hazel found help at Manna, Inc. food pantry in Thomson, GA. “Coming here for food is such a blessing because I am struggling with meals and hospital bills, and since I lost my son it’s been pretty hard on me,” she says.
“At first I was ashamed because I am used to working and struggling to make ends meet, but I am not ashamed anymore. I feel like it’s a blessing to come here,” Hazel smiles. “I love getting grits, canned vegetables, apples and bananas…and the people here are wonderful.”
Manna, Inc food pantry serves food to over 500 McDuffie County families in need each month. The ministry also works to meet community needs for non-food items like clothing, furniture, and diapers.
“I feel those with the greatest needs are our seniors,” says Keryl Corley, Executive Director at Manna. “We are fortunate in that we can provide more than just food. We have furniture, appliances, clothing, toys and household items too.”
The pantry is open Monday through Friday, 10 am – 12 pm. To volunteer, stop by the pantry or call 706-595-3138. To donate, mail your gift to Manna, PO BOX 295, Thomson, GA 30824 or visit mcduffiemanna.weebly.com. You can also visit Manna on Facebook at McDuffieManna to get involved.
