Tarique works hard to provide for his family. But like so many in Mississauga, sometimes he needs a little extra help. You give him that place he can rely on.
“It’s not easy out there,” Tarique* says, looking at the growing line at the food bank.
Tarique’s wife had a stroke, leaving her unable to work. She receives ODSP, but it’s not enough to cover their rent, let alone the bills, or food for the two of them and their 14-year-old son.
The family relies on Tarique’s income as a construction worker. But right now, work isn’t always easy to come by.
“It’s tough this year. It’s stressful,” he shares. “Nobody’s calling. It’s the first time I’ve seen it like this.”
Thankfully, Tarique’s family can rely on their neighbourhood food pantry, St. Hilary’s Food Cupboard, thanks to the support of caring people like you.
Between taking care of his wife, raising a teenager, and finding work, Tarique deals with a lot of uncertainty. But thanks to people like you, he has one weight lifted from his shoulders.
He’s especially grateful to be able to provide for his son, who needs a lot of food as a growing teenager.
“We really appreciate the rice, the bread, the meat… and the cereal! My son goes through a lot of cereal!” Tarique laughs.
He’s also grateful for the foods that help him connect with and share his Guyanese culture.
“You want to have those cultural foods sometimes. The plantains, the greens… Especially on Sundays for family gatherings.”
For neighbours like Tarique, your support is much more than a meal on the table. It’s about being part of a community.
“The staff who work here, remind me what it was like growing up with our neighbours around us, supporting us.”
“Thank you to the staff, the volunteers, and the people who give. It’s very nice, being able to depend on you. Without you, what would we do?”
