When Martina arrived at VEAP, she was fleeing a violent relationship with the father of her two young children. She was scared, had no home and no food for her children. Thankfully, she was able to select healthy, fresh foods for herself and her children from the VEAP food pantry.

However, VEAP is much more than just a food pantry. When Martina arrived at VEAP she was able to meet with one of VEAP’s licensed social workers immediately. They connected her with resources to protect her from her husband, help her find affordable housing and job resources.

It has not been an easy road, but Martina is now working and she and her children are safe and in an apartment of their own.  Like most VEAP clients, Martina lives off approximately $1,600 per month and with her rent at $1,000, that leaves little for food, clothing and gas for the car. Martina continues to visit the VEAP pantry once a month and is very grateful for the variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, dairy and meat for her growing children. Recently, Martina left a tearful message for the social worker that had helped her when she first came to VEAP– “Thank you. I am so grateful for VEAP and the way you helped my family. I’m getting back on my feet again. I can’t thank you enough.”

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