This is one of a series of stories about the 15 nonprofit agencies that receive money from The Gazette/El Pomar Foundation Empty Stocking campaign that runs through the holidays.
Tina said that High Plains Helping Hands has been a blessing for her and her family for three years. No matter what, when she has needed help, they have been there.
“I love it there,” Tina said. “I’ve even spent volunteer time there.”
In 2010, a friend suggested she look at the High Plains food bank, one of nearly 50 agencies that receive food from Care and Share. Care and Share distributed nearly 14 million pounds of food in southern Colorado in fiscal year 2010, according to its website.
Tina, whose full name is not being used to protect her privacy, has needed help on and off because of different jobs and family situations. She said she uses the food pantry only when she and her family really need it. “I feel like I’m wanted there,” she said.
Her husband was injured and is on a fixed income. Tina is going to American College to earn her GED because she said it is very hard to get a job without it. The couple has three grown children.
“It has been a long time since I’ve been in school,” Tina said.
High Plains Helping Hands always offers support, she said.
“They’re always present and always prayed for me,” she said.
---
HOW TO DONATE
Make a secure donation at www.fillanemptystocking.org. Call 476-1673 to make a credit card or stock donation. Make check payable to the Empty Stocking Fund and mail to P.O. Box 910942, Denver, CO 80291-0942. Contribute $10 by texting STOCKING to 50555. Like us on Facebook at EmptyStockingFund or follow us on Twitter @esfsprings.