When Life Takes a Turn: George’s Story
When George thinks of Manna Meal, the first things that come to mind are his friends.
George, recovering from a recent heart attack, had been advised by his doctor to lay low. He tried—for a bit—but was soon itching to get out of the house and be around people again.
His search for occupation led him to the Charleston men’s shelter, where he took up work in the kitchen. He became fast friends with many of the shelter’s residents and began to note their absence at lunch on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Eventually, he asked what was behind these mysterious disappearances, and their faces lit up as they answered: casserole day at Manna Meal!
Struck by their enthusiasm, George decided to see for himself what all the fuss was about.
Now, five years later, he still visits Manna Meal. Seven days a week.
As much as George enjoys Manna Meal’s food (the casserole didn’t disappoint), it’s really the people that brought him there, and the people that keep bringing him back.
“I’ve gotten to know so many wonderful folks,” he said. “Everyone has a story. For most of us, life has taken some kind of turn, and having that space to talk about our common struggles helps tremendously.”
For some, it’s a loss of a job or an eviction that has knocked them off their feet. In George’s case, it’s been a seemingly endless stream of health issues: heart attack, brain surgery, coronary artery surgery, stroke. Every one of these conditions—unemployment and homelessness included—has the power to destabilize as well as isolate.
Knowing that he’ll always have a community at Manna Meal has helped George face the serious health challenges that have been thrown at him.
“Manna Meal gives me a connection with society,” George said. “It gives me a support system. So much revolves around it. It’s more than eating lunch and hitting the road.”
Recently, a newcomer who sat down at George’s table told him, “I’m just trying to get my life back.”
This, George explains, is how the majority at Manna Meal feel.
“We all have our ups and downs, we all have trials. But at Manna Meal, we can work together to get through it.”
And please consider donating to help our neighbors like George find firmer ground, nutritious meals, and family.
