“To see y’all still here, and the progress – it’s just wonderful.” – Mary, NFCC Client
When Mary* first came to NFCC, she was a single mother of three young children. Like so many parents, she wanted stability for her family but struggled to make ends meet. NFCC provided food, clothing, and seasonal programs that helped her children thrive.
Over time, she was able to build the stability her family needed and no longer needed to seek support from NFCC. But when an unexpected financial hardship arose years later, she knew exactly where to turn back to a trusted community resource – NFCC.
We sat down with Mary to reflect on her journey. What stood out most in her memory? The lines.
She remembers her son setting up a chair at 3 a.m. outside our doors so she could be first in line for financial assistance. She recalls holiday seasons when families stood in lines that were wrapped around buildings, waiting for food or gifts. At that time, services were first-come, first-served and if resources ran out, families had to come back another day.
Those long lines are now a thing of the past.
Today, NFCC offers appointments that bring dignity and predictability across all programs. Whether someone is seeking food, financial assistance, or other support, they can wait comfortably in our lobby, knowing they’ll be served with care and respect. They can choose the foods that best suit their needs. Holiday programs are organized so that parents can shop for their children with pride and ease. Support is no longer about waiting in line, it’s about being welcomed, seen, and served with respect.
"Y’all did a wonderful job. It’s very organized now, and you’re still helping people.” - Mary, NFCC Client
Mary’s story is also a story of legacy. A few years ago, her daughter became the first recipient of a car through NFCC’s vehicle donation program, a gift that helped her build stability for her own family. Even this summer, she still brought her children to NFCC Back To School program, a reminder that our impact stretches across generations.
NFCC has always been here to meet the need. But as the needs in our community grow, so must our ability to respond. Thanks to your support, we’ve eliminated the long lines and expanded our reach. With a new satellite pantry and garden in East Roswell, adult education and ESL classes, and workforce readiness programs, NFCC is making it easier than ever for families to access the resources they need to build stronger futures.
The need is growing. So are we.
With your support, we can continue to meet the need today and for generations to come.
*client named change to protect identity.
