FIERCe

Student: "When I was younger I used to be so embarrassed to receive school food because (I) knew that everyone knew that I was poor because I couldn't afford to have a packed lunch like everyone else. It got really bad to the point that I wouldn't go up to get my food and I wouldn't eat lunch at school. I became medically underweight at the time. I know how hard it is to feel judged for not having what you cannot afford. I owe everything to the ladies at the food bank that would welcome us and make us feel comfortable, so that we wouldn't feel shame over not being able to afford a basic necessity. Having a positive experience and people encouraging you really helps to male one comfortable to receive food.

 

The hardest part for me is feeling insecure about asking for help. I feel like because I’m older I should have this figured out by now. People younger than me have it figured out why done I? The best I can suggest would keep putting it out there that it’s ok to need a little help no matter you age."