Maria Diaz came as an energetic volunteer from Giant Foods on Columbia Avenue because she wanted to give back, specifically to the Lancaster County Food Hub.

Her journey to recovery started in 1995 when she went to the South Street Clinic because of her broken hand. The attending physician realized what was going on; she was the victim of domestic abuse. With the support of the Lancaster Community, she and her 8 children left that dangerous situation but had many challenges ahead.

This is where the services of the Lancaster Food Hub, then Lancaster County Council of Churches on King Street helped her tremendously. Because her walk to King Street would take her an hour, she called ahead and said she was coming even though it was at the end of the day and they waited for her.

“You guys were there. You had my back. I’ve been through it all. But I relied on you for everything – food, clothing, diapers, formula.” When asked how did you make it through? Maria said that you have to change your mind set to move forward.

Asking for help is hard, but getting help at the Lancaster County Food Hub is easy.

Giving back and being thankful is key. The Lancaster County Food Hub has helped neighbors since 1947 get reliable support to rebuild their lives. Help us continue providing food, clothing, and shelter for our neighbors in need.