Bob Shares his Mobile Food Pantry Experience

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When I volunteer at FROM’s Mobile Food Pantry, I see myself in every vehicle that pulls up, pops their trunk and leaves with a few boxes of food.

In the Fall of 2001, I stood in line at the Kent County Youth Fair Grounds with a couple of bags under my arm waiting for the doors at Flat River Outreach Ministries (FROM) Mobile Food Pantry to open.

I had been let go from a well-paying job and found myself on unemployment just 12 months after purchasing a new home in downtown Lowell and a new car.

I quickly burnt through my savings and lived off from a part-time job and unemployment checks. I took a second part-time job selling Christmas trees at a local farm stand because I didn’t want to live off from just unemployment… and, I couldn’t. I was required to claim that income which dramatically reduced my unemployment benefits.

With a lot of budgeting, coupon cutting and food from FROM, I was able to make ends meet until I landed my current job that following summer.

Our neighbors who utilize FROM’s Mobile Food Pantry (and more than a dozen other programs at FROM) have found themselves in a situation where they’ve realized they need a little help.

For most of us it takes a lot to ask, show up and receive help. It sure was for me.

I remember seeing people I knew handing me food. I felt ashamed and embarrassed at first, but then I could see their compassion in their eyes, love in their smiles and generosity in their hands. They were there to help unconditionally, no matter what.

If you need help, you can come to FROM. And if you want to help others, the answer is the same: you can come to FROM to volunteer, drop off your unwanted treasures to the thrift store or donate your financial blessings generously.

Welcome, Pastor Nate!

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Welcome Pastor Nate Gray to the FROM Board of Directors!  

What drew you to FROM and how did you get connected?  

We have been in the community for twelve years now and from the beginning I wanted to personally, and lead my church, to be a part of where God was at work in the community.  It didn’t take long to realize FROM was engaging in Kingdom work!  I wish I had taken more of a hands-on approach long ago, but we have been part of FROM initiatives for years.  Lately, the opportunity to serve by being a part of the board presented itself and I sensed God’s leading.  I also recognized how much I could learn and grow by rubbing shoulders with the great people involved at FROM.  I also wholeheartedly agree with FROM’s guiding beliefs and core values.  I appreciate an organization that desires to come alongside others, to equip, empower and help people experience wholeness and health.

What are you most excited about as you begin your role on FROMs board? 

I am excited to learn and grow!  I am excited to add my voice, passions, gifts and service!  I also look forward to living into my unique role as providing a pastoral presence and spiritual guidance in any way I can on the board and to those in the FROM network.  I love to walk with people on their journeys and listen to their heart’s cries, questions and passions.  It is a privilege to be able to walk in these sacred ways. God is always present and at work and we get to join him! 

 What’s a random fact about yourself?  

I grew up doing lumberjack contests with my dad and brother and still enjoy those to this day.  However, I also love to sit in a coffee shop and discuss deep things!  I have varying interests and hobbies and l think it allows me to meet and get to know people from all different walks of life!  

Pastor Nate will be another valuable asset to FROM, and we look forward to the new progress we will be able to make with him on our team! 

Welcome, Dolores!

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As we continue to welcome Dolores to the Treasures Thrift Store team, we conducted an interview to get to know her a little better.  

 Dolores found FROM as a volunteer in November 2019, after defeating cancer and losing her mother and husband earlier that year.  

 “This was something I needed to fill my time, and everyone was so welcoming,” she said. “This filled a void.” 

 Seeing and connecting with new people in the Thrift Store and at the Front Desk is part of why she loves FROM so much. “I’ve always had the gift to gab,” Dolores says. 

 Dolores transitioned from a volunteer to a staff member in late 2021 to help fill gaps at Treasures Thrift Store. 

 “I’m so excited to have this position which, along with our amazing volunteers, will give us the opportunity to provide the necessary coverage to help fill our gaps as well as help us provide the best shopping experience for our customers,” Laura, Thrift Store Manager, said. 

 Here are a couple fun facts about Dolores as well… 

  • She spends her Monday’s dog sitting her granddaughters golden retriever puppy.  
  • She and her husband lived on a golf course for 20 years and loved to golf together! 

 Dolores has already been a valuable addition to the FROM team in aiding to resolve the cashiering schedule issues.  

 Welcome, Dolores, we are so glad you’re here!