Carl had been coming to Twin Lakes Food Bank for years to get groceries for him and his wife, Emma. He’s the kind of person you notice right away—not because he asks for anything, but because of the way he carries himself. A veteran on a fixed income, he consistently shows up with a quiet strength and a grateful heart. Each visit to the food bank meant bringing home the groceries that would become their daily rhythm… especially breakfast. Every morning, Carl would prepare a meal for Emma using the food he received—simple, steady acts of love that filled their home.
A few years ago, Emma had a stroke that Carl thought that she had recovered from, but one day when she wasn’t feeling well, he took her to the hospital. In a moment that no one could have expected, she passed away.
Today, Carl still wakes up each morning and makes breakfast. But instead of sitting across from Emma, he sits with her photo… setting the table as if she were still there, honoring the life they shared in the only way he knows how. When he is able, Carl visits his wife’s grave and brings flowers. Guest Engagement Coordinator, Lindsay Olson said to him, “Next time you go, let us know. We have flowers in our garden… we’d love to make a bouquet for you.”
The line of guests outside our doors isn’t just a line, it’s filled with people who have loved deeply, lost deeply, and are doing their best to carry on. Would you consider making a one-time gift to help us reach our $75,000 goal during Big Day of Giving? Your support ensures we can continue to care for people like Carl—not just with food, but with dignity, compassion, and moments of kindness that remind them they are not alone.
