A Teenager Provides for His Family

2021 has been another year of uncertainty as we try to return to a sense of normalcy. As we head into 2022, we are seeing rising grocery and gas prices—both of which are financial challenges for the families we serve.

Your generous support has allowed us to serve families and seniors in our community who need food assistance, like Francisco’s family.

Francisco is a 17 year-old student at Austin High School. He lives with his parents, Maria and Felix, and three younger brothers, two of whom are in school and one who has a chronic illness (not pictured). His father recently became unable to work and his disability payments are used for rent and utilities. Francisco’s family is struggling to make ends meet this holiday season.

Francisco has dreams of going to college next year to become an engineer. He is hopeful to receive a scholarship and in the meantime is taking classes to learn welding. To help his family, Francisco works as a cashier at Burger King. After leaving school for the day, he has an hour to get to work before his evening shift starts at 5pm.

His mother, Maria, says that Francisco is sometimes sad because he wants to do more to care for his family. Francisco is worried about his family’s wellbeing. Your support has relieved some of his stress as he dreams about going to college to become an engineer.

We wish you and your loved ones a safe holiday season and best wishes in the new year!