“A year ago, I was doing well,” recalls Rose as she selects fresh vegetables from a food distribution in Kissimmee. Rose, a dedicated healthcare worker, works six days a week at two jobs. However, despite her hard work, it is not enough to keep up with the inflated cost of living and outstanding medical debt.
“Just like that,” she says and snaps her fingers, “Debts accrue, your credit goes down, and all of a sudden, everything is downhill. Sometimes, I have to put food on the back burner and worry about other bills.”
Rose perseveres and prioritizes essential bills like rent and a car loan. With the invaluable support from a food pantry supported by Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida, she takes home produce, bread, and canned goods. The food represents more than just sustenance, it is a lifeline in her daily battle to survive.
“Sometimes I feel like I don't matter because I'm single, like I'm left out and not seen because I don't have any kids,” she confesses, her voice tinged with exhaustion and frustration. “To know there's a program here that is helping people out and giving good quality food makes me happy. It makes me very, very happy.”
Amidst her hardships, Rose demonstrates remarkable resilience. She is considering a career change not to escape her current situation but to improve her financial standing and continue her fight toward stability.
“Every day, I'm going to fight the good fight, get up, work as hard as I can, and do my best. That's all I can do.”
With one less worry off the table, Rose continues to strive forward, one day, one meal at a time.
