10/15/2026
The Miracle of Table of Grace Food Pantry
By Margaret Waadt
First of all, I would like to thank and express my love and appreciation to every person who volunteers at Table of Grace Food Pantry, especially Sherri and Lee, who lead this ministry with such compassion.
My granddaughter was diagnosed with a mental health disorder that makes it especially difficult for her to be around crowds of people. After her diagnosis, her psychologist wanted to make sure she had access to every resource available in our community that could help her as she navigated life with her mental health challenges. One of those resources was the food pantry in the town where she lives.
As her grandmother, I began looking into the food pantries in our community and discovered Table of Grace.
At first, my granddaughter was very reluctant to go. She came up with every excuse she could think of to avoid going. I kept encouraging her, saying, “Please don't be afraid. These kind people are here to help you on your journey through life as you face your mental health challenges.”
Finally, she agreed to go with me. The people at Table of Grace kindly allowed me to walk alongside her for comfort and reassurance. That simple act of kindness meant so much. The volunteers were welcoming, nonjudgmental, and encouraging. As the weeks went by, their kindness continued. Sometimes, a hug and a few encouraging words, such as, “You've got this!” were all she needed to keep moving forward.
As the year went on, she began to feel more comfortable at the pantry. Little by little, she gained confidence and learned how to shop for herself.
Now, two years later, she still goes to the food pantry with me, but things are very different. She is happy to see the kind people who welcome her and help her shop. What once felt frightening and overwhelming has become a place where she feels comfortable, accepted, and cared for.
I call this “The Miracle of Table of Grace” because of the incredible journey my granddaughter has made—from receiving a mental health diagnosis and being afraid to enter a food pantry to gaining the confidence to shop for herself two years later.
To me, that is truly a miracle!
Thank you, Table of Grace Food Pantry, for providing so much more than food. Thank you for offering kindness, encouragement, acceptance, and love. You have made a lasting difference in my granddaughter's life, and our family will always be grateful.
With love and heartfelt appreciation,
Margaret Waadt
