Mike’s Story

Mike’s worked his whole life; for the last 24 years, he had a construction job, that provided a nice life for him and his wife, Janet.

That changed in May when Mike suffered a heart attack. Then Janet also had health challenges.

“She literally passed away in my arms a few months ago,” he said. “I had to give her CPR.”

While both are doing better now, Mike and Janet did not have insurance.

Medical bills quickly depleted the couple’s savings and Mike found himself visiting Southeast Missouri Food Bank for assistance.

“I worked hard all my life, but everything changed so quickly,” he shared at a food bank distribution. “It’s hard for me to come and ask for help. The thing about it is, we don’t need to just stay down. There are resources than can help you.”

Other Stories

Linda’s Story

 Linda lives in East Prairie, where life has slowed in ways she never expected. “I don’t have much income coming in,” she said simply. Each month, Linda picks up a…
Read More →

Tommy’s Story

These days, Tommy is focused on getting by — and helping others do the same. He was born and raised in Charleston, later spending years working in Chicago before returning to Southeast…
Read More →

Helen’s Story

Helen has lived in Mississippi County her whole life … “out in the country,” as she puts it.  Now 87, nearly 88, she still makes the trip into town each month with…
Read More →

Tammy & Billy’s Story

Twice each month, Tammy and her brother Billy pick up a box of fresh produce through Southeast Missouri Food Bank’s Produce Prescription Program. The program, funded through a grant in…
Read More →

Melissa’s Story

As the holiday season approaches, the challenges of providing for her family weigh heavily on Melissa. Her family of six – including two grown children living on their own –…
Read More →

Abby’s Story

For college student Abby, the holidays can be a struggle. She works two jobs, goes to school full-time to become a nurse, and pays her own bills while living on…
Read More →