Mary’s Story

*Mary lives in Niagara County with her husband and two boys. Her oldest son is grown and out of the house, while her younger son is in junior high. Although she started as his grandmother, Mary became his mother when he was abandoned at just three days old.

She is one of over two million grandparents in the United States raising their children’s children, often facing significant challenges along the way.

Raising an energetic boy later in life hasn’t been easy. Without SNAP benefits or support groups, meeting everyday needs is an ongoing challenge.

“Everything is expensive and it’s getting worse,” Mary says.

Through a school counselor, Mary learned about the High School Pantry Program at her son’s school, established through a partnership with FeedMore WNY. The pantry provides nutritious groceries for families who need a little help making ends meet.

“The variety of food – pasta, vegetables, fruit, oatmeal, potatoes, peanut butter, chicken, rice, and more – is wonderful,” Mary says.

Mary recalls that her youngest son was very sick when he was little. Today, with good nutritious food to lead the way, he is healthy and happy and rarely misses a day of school.

Mary is grateful for the High School Pantry Program and for the school counselor who helped connect her family to this support.

*Mary’s name has been changed for privacy.