At this year’s Mission banquet, a Food Distribution Center (FDC) volunteer named Abby Carson conveyed a story about someone you impacted through your support: Two years ago, a young woman named Simone came to the FDC for the first time. She was quiet, reserved, and noticeably pregnant. As Abby chatted with her, she learned Simone followed a plant-based diet, so Abby began setting aside imitation meat products for her. It was a small gesture, but a meaningful one. All of the regular volunteers came to know Simone, and in time, she opened up to them.
At the time, Simone was staying at Heartly House, which is a shelter for survivors of domestic violence.
After her baby was born, the child’s father tried to take the little girl by force.
Thankfully, he was unsuccessful, but the trauma left a mark. Simone became fiercely protective of her daughter. Even after the baby learned to walk, she never let her out of sight while shopping at the FDC.
When the Mission bought Simone a collapsible cart to help carry her groceries, she broke down in tears. It was such a simple gift, but to her, it meant the world. She says she uses the cart everywhere to carry her daughter’s supplies.
Last summer, Simone and her daughter found themselves homeless for two weeks. But thanks to our partnership with the Saint Vincent DePaul Society, we were able to help her find safe housing.
Simone still doesn’t put her daughter in daycare; she says raising her is her greatest joy. But the difference now is this: she trusts the FDC staff and volunteers to watch and play with her daughter while she shops. That kind of trust doesn’t happen overnight—it comes from love, consistency, and community.
When Simone talks about what keeps her coming back, it’s not just the food. She says it’s the community, the safety, and the kindness she experiences there. Abby explained, “That is what the Mission is all about. It’s not just about feeding the body—it’s about feeding the soul. It’s about healing, dignity, and connection. It’s about showing the love of Jesus to every one of our guests.” Thank you for allowing God’s spirit of generosity to work through you!
