As the young mother of two-year-old Jacelyn, and with another child on the way, Cheyenne’s world was turned upside down when she was no longer able to work due to her pregnancy. Suddenly, her family found themselves trying to balance the overwhelming weight of childcare, car payments, and basic living expenses—all on her husband’s single income. The weight was heavy, and like so many of our neighbors, Cheyenne found that feeding her family, a task that once brought joy, had become a heartbreaking challenge.

Cheyenne didn’t give up. She turned to Second Harvest for help. For her, it wasn’t just about putting food on the table—it was about knowing that she was not alone in this struggle. It was about building a happy and healthy home for her growing family.

Hannah has always been a helper. She grew up volunteering at food banks with her family and never imagining she might one day need their support herself. Hannah shares, “Growing up, I wouldn’t have thought I’d ever need this help.”

A sudden accident changed Hannah's life. Recently, she experienced a serious injury that left her facing significant challenges. Emergency life saving surgery left her $40,000 in medical debt and out of work. A Second Harvest Mobile Pantry was more than a source of food. It was her lifeline. Reflecting on her experience, Hannah expressed heartfelt gratitude, saying, “Knowing I can get groceries here takes a load off. It’s really a blessing.”

Lifelong best friends Dorothy and Cordelia built their own fulfilling careers in education before retiring to a senior living facility. The two best friends now live as neighbors. Despite both women giving a combined 75 years of service to Nashville's education system, their social security benefits fall short of covering even just their basic needs.

Despite being hard to access, Dorothy knows fresh and healthy groceries are important. After spending part of her career as a cook for Nashville Public Schools, she understands the value of nutritious meals. With the help of Second Harvest, the two are able to access the fresh produce and other pantry staples they need. Dorothy says, “This is a big help. Even though we live in a senior high-rise, everything is so expensive. Food is so expensive. I’d like to thank everybody who had anything to do with this.” Cordelia adds, “Thank you for keeping us in your heart!”

Devon left his home at 5 AM to make it to a Second Harvest Mobile Pantry. This is his first time receiving assistance, though he’s no stranger to food drives. He’s volunteered at several Second Harvest Mobile Pantries in the past. Things changed after he got married and enrolled in college. For him and his wife, balancing his studies and a part-time job has brought its share of challenges.

Moving into their first apartment just three months ago, John has quickly realized how overwhelming expenses can be. “The price of rent with being a full-time college student where I can’t work full-time—it’s definitely a lot harder,” he says. Financial aid helps with tuition, but the rising cost of living adds strain.

He shares. “I’ve worked in these and am now actually receiving help. I don’t know what I’d do without it.” With the support of Second Harvest, John and his wife can focus on their goals without the constant worry of where their next meal will come from.