Stories

Rita has had some unlucky breaks to say the least. The first came when she was kicked out of her house and disowned by her family for becoming pregnant. Then she struggled as a single mom, hardly able to find a job to support herself and her children.

Konnor has a smile that lights up any room and an equally infectious personality. Every person who comes to this local food pantry in Miami loves him. He’s always there to offer a kind word, a reassuring story, or a compassionate smile.

“I chose the wrong path,” he admits. “If I would have made better choices, I would still have had everything my family built when I was a kid.”

Annie and Shane have the kind of relationship you see in people who can honestly say, “I married my best friend.” Their personalities contrast in a way that compliments them both.

Giving is in Gabrielle’s nature. The first thing she’s eager to share are words. She’s outgoing and friendly, speaking with her hands as much as her voice.

Maya has big plans for her future. Goal number one: college. Specifically, she’s looking for a Bible college where she can expand her volunteering track record into full-fledged missionary work while putting her love of worship music to good use.

“Getting help like that definitely gives us hope because it definitely means there’s still good people in this world,” William told us. “We would’ve lost our house and ended up in a homeless shelter. You helped us at our lowest time. Thank you!”

“I’m a Vietnam Marine, honorably discharged,” Clint says proudly, adding, “Oorah!”

After his time in the Marines, Clint worked a stint as a police officer before moving to Miami in 2021. “I’ve had a hard time,” he admits.

Being a teenager is hard for many reasons. Jaida is 15 years old, and she should be getting ready to drive and thinking about what she’ll wear to the next school dance. But her life hasn’t been typical or easy for the last couple of years.