Poverty, unemployment and the continued high cost of food have left thousands of families in southwestern Pennsylvania — especially families with children — struggling to put healthy meals on the table. Gary’s family is one of them.
For years, Gary worked as a welding contractor, but he can no longer work due to a heart condition and arthritis. His wife is also unable to work because of COPD. Now, the two of them are raising their 6-year-old grandson, Levi.
“Considering the high price for food now, food stamps don’t go very far,” Gary says. For the past year or so, Gary and his wife have been coming to Grace Presbyterian Church Food Pantry. “We really appreciate the extra help,” he says. “I guess that sums it up!”