For more than 20 years, Martha has called Port Chester home. She is a mother of four, deeply rooted in her community, guided by faith, and fiercely committed to providing for her family, even when the odds are stacked against her.
Today, that commitment often means making difficult choices.
“Everything is expensive,” Martha explains. Rent comes first, always. Bills pile up. Groceries alone can cost hundreds of dollars a week. And when family members need medication, there are moments when Martha has to decide which urgent need can wait.
That’s where Feeding Westchester and our network of partner agencies come in.
Martha makes it a priority to visit food distributions and local pantries throughout Port Chester. She laughs as she describes it: “I joke with my kids and tell them this is my full-time job, finding food for you.”
When she brings groceries home, her children are happy. Whatever she can put on the table brings comfort, stability, and a sense of normalcy, something every parent wants for their kids.
Through Feeding Westchester partner agencies like the Carver Center, Martha can access fresh fruits and vegetables, milk, meat, and other staples that help stretch her limited budget. The food doesn’t just fill plates; it lifts a heavy burden.
“Food assistance really helps,” she says. “It allows me to keep going.”
Equally important is how she is treated when she shows up.
“At food distributions, I’m treated with respect and dignity,” Martha shares. “I also give respect, because I know many families are relying on these same resources.”
That sense of dignity has had a powerful impact on her children, especially her youngest son, who often accompanies her. He proudly helps her carry groceries home. One day, he told her that if he ever needed help when he’s older, he wouldn’t be ashamed to ask for food, just like she does now.
For Martha, that moment meant everything.
“There is no shame in asking for help,” she tells her children. “We thank God, and we thank the people who make this possible.”
Martha knows firsthand that Port Chester is fortunate to have strong food access. She hears it every day, neighbors expressing gratitude, families helping one another, and relief that someone is there to catch them when they fall.
She wants Feeding Westchester supporters to know this: your generosity matters. Not just in pounds of food or numbers served, but in real moments, dinners shared, burdens eased, and children learning that asking for help is a sign of strength.
“I’m thankful to everyone who gives from their heart,” Martha says. “Not just for my family, but for all families who need help.”
Because of you, Martha doesn’t have to face hunger alone. And neither do thousands of families across Westchester.
