For those battling chronic illnesses, healthy food can be as crucial as medication. One local food pantry is taking this to heart, providing not just food but care and kindness. Heather Walker shares their story.
Many know grocery prices have jumped. For someone with a chronic condition, keeping the fridge stocked is a real challenge.
Janice Robinson, who lives on a fixed income, has to prioritize her spending on medicine first. When she discovered Poverello Food Pantry in Wilton Manors, it felt like a lifeline.
“I absolutely love it. I don’t know what I would do without Poverello,” Janice says, emphasizing her gratitude.
This place is not your typical food pantry. According to Thomas Pietrogallo, Poverello’s CEO, “It’s like grocery shopping but with a personal touch.” Clients can place orders online or in person, selecting food items that suit their tastes and needs.
If someone doesn’t like a tomato, they can request something different. “It’s customized,” Thomas explains. Clients can pick up their groceries or have them delivered directly to their cars or homes.
Poverello doesn’t just offer dry goods—they provide a wide selection of fresh produce and proteins, from soft shell crab to fresh scallops. “We ensure that what we give people is what we would eat,” Thomas adds.
Janice and over 3,000 other clients have access to nutritionists who help them choose health-focused options. “Have you seen any changes in your health?” Heather asked Janice. “Yes,” she responded, “I haven’t had any problems lately.”
Poverello goes beyond food. They also have nurse practitioners available to assist clients with medication needs. Janice reflected, “Without this place, I really don’t know what I’d do.”
“This is a true lifeline for those in need,” Thomas stated, highlighting how their services come at no cost to clients, thanks to grants and donations.
A dedicated team of volunteers helps sort and assemble orders, creating a supportive community that truly cares for its neighbors. “At Poverello, you can feel the love and support,” Janice shared.
In the world of community support, things like Poverello remind us that compassion can be the best medicine. As Thomas put it, “Food for the body and compassion for the soul is what we aim to provide.”
This approach to community support reflects a growing trend. According to a recent report from the Food Research and Action Center, food insecurity is especially high among those with chronic illnesses. By addressing both nutritional and emotional needs, places like Poverello serve as crucial resources in today’s challenging landscape.
