One Family’s Unexpected Journey to the Food Pantry

Like so many families across Eastern Massachusetts navigating food insecurity, Andrew* never guessed he would someday turn to a food pantry for assistance.

Andrew, his wife, and two children (aged 9 and 13) had been enjoying a comfortable life in Shirley, Massachusetts for more than a decade when a sudden job loss turned everything upside down.

“My wife and I have always been employed. Everything was great,” Andrew said. “Last November, I was let go from my company. At the time, I thought I’d be employed by January, no problem.”

On the same day he lost his job, Andrew chaperoned his son’s Cub Scout tour of Loaves & Fishes food pantry in Devens. “It was kind of emotional,” he recalled. “At the time, I thought, I might need this someday.” He realized his family’s situation is not unique.

By February, Andrew realized that while his wife was still employed, the cost of groceries—as much as $250 a week for a family of four—was beyond what they could absorb in their suddenly limited household budget. He started visiting Loaves and Fishes for support. This pantry receives 61 percent of its food from GBFB on average.

“It’s not like I advertise to people that we go to the food [pantry], but I’m not so proud that I wouldn’t come here,” he said. “I understand it’s here for people in any situation, whether it’s [having a] low income or someone who suddenly falls on hard times. I think, in general, people don’t realize how many members of their community are in need.”

With the help of Loaves & Fishes, Andrew and his family can stretch their budget to include nutritious meals, including fresh vegetables, while they get back on their feet. In the meantime, he encourages people to consider supporting their local food pantries and The Greater Boston Food Bank.

“People should really consider donating $25, $50, $100,” he said. “Because that goes a long way.”

*Andrew’s name has been changed.