At the Community Food Kitchen, now Open Door Café (ODC), she found more than a hot, homemade, daily meal. She found more than just help with her physical needs. She connected with other community members in a way that blurs the distinction between giving and receiving. At HOPE, Inc. she became a person who both receives services and lifts others with her spirit and volunteer efforts. Here in Southwest Virginia 1 in 8 adults live in food insecure households. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) defines food insecurity as a lack of consistent access to enough food for an active, healthy life. Nationally, 2.2 million households across rural communities like ours face hunger. These communities comprise 63% of all US counties. Rural counties encompass 87% of total counties with the highest overall food insecurity rates. According to One World Everybody Eats, donate-what-you-can eateries like Open Door Café “create spaces where people are nourished in body and soul. People come together, eat in dignity, and form strong bonds that foster an interconnected community.” Frankie remained positive and was determined to overcome all challenges while contributing to the community she loves. At Open Door Café she found “a growing community that helps one another.” She says, “I love that so much, there’s a sense of community, friendship, and closeness that I can’t find anywhere else.” First a regular at the Open Door’s precursor, Frankie now frequents the café as a consummate cheerleader and uplifting voice to volunteers, patrons, and others. At the café she has met and helped people facing pain and physical limitations. She says by listening and sharing her hopeful story “it makes them feel better, knowing that yes there’s somebody out there that relates to me. I’m not alone, and if I can do that, then it’s worth it.” Frankie also volunteers her time, "paying it forward" with nearly 1,000 string ties cut and bundled per week. The strings are used to secure HOPE Packs weekend meals benefitting approximately 700 school-aged children per week. On top of that, Frankie is an essential member of HOPE, Inc.’s volunteer Board of Directors. Frankie is an inspiration. She is determined to rise above all challenges, reminding those she touches that HOPE rings not just this season, but year round at Open Door Café. Just as Mary and Joseph found food prepared by strangers, ODC volunteers help their neighbors find hope and a warm meal. You can join Frankie as volunteer at least one weekday per week, Monday-Friday from 10 am – 2pm. Serving over 20,000 meals annually, your support helps people like Frankie. Even a modest weekly pledge of $8 or more goes along way. Each $8 gift funds one café meal. Alternatively, with a gift of $640 this Advent season, you can fund a full day of café meals. |
