How Giving Kitchen Supported Maria During a Difficult Time

Maria, a dedicated back-of-house (BOH) employee in Cleveland, Ohio, has spent the past 10 years contributing her skills to the food service industry. Maria’s journey in the food service industry has always been shaped by dedication and hard work. When she lost her son Carlos, grief wasn’t the only weight she carried—her financial stability unraveled, and the threat of eviction loomed large. It was a moment filled with uncertainty, fear, and the daunting reality of losing her home as her adult son also helped support the household bills.

During this difficult period, Maria learned about Giving Kitchen through a friend. Understanding that stability is essential for herself and her household, she decided to seek help. The process of applying for financial assistance was “very simple,” and she was relieved to find support during a time of need. Giving Kitchen provided help by paying for a month’s rent, giving Maria and her household some peace of mind as they worked toward regaining balance.

Receiving financial assistance from Giving Kitchen was a pivotal moment for Maria and her family. With help to cover their rent, Maria didn’t have to face homelessness. Instead, she was able to stay in her home, surrounded by memories and the comfort of some familiar ground while navigating the heartbreak. She describes the impact as “detrimental to my life,” not just a financial relief, but a steadying presence when circumstances felt overwhelming. Maria’s story is a powerful testament to how stability matters—how keeping a roof overhead isn’t just about shelter, but about preserving dignity, community, and hope.

Today, Maria describes herself as “well.” Recovery is ongoing; grief doesn’t simply fade, and financial healing is a journey. Yet, there’s a gentle optimism in her words—a gratitude for every new day, and for the kindness she experienced during her darkest hours.

She wants other food service workers to know: “Don’t hesitate. They care. They are proactive at GK, and you can tell that they help people because they want to and can. I am so happy I reached out.” Maria’s encouragement shines with the knowledge that asking for help can be the bravest—and most caring—thing you do for yourself and your family.

What will always stand out in Maria’s experience is her gratitude—not just for the support, but for the spirit of community that makes such help possible. She shares, “Just more thank you’s and express my gratitude to everyone who makes this possible.” Maria’s journey doesn’t end with receiving help; it extends outwards, inspiring her daughter to start a nonprofit in Carlos’s memory—The Carlos Beriguette Foundation for Learning. Through giving back, the cycle of compassion Maria experienced with Giving Kitchen continues, honoring Carlos’s love for learning and teaching children.

Maria’s story reminds us: stability isn’t given; it’s grown, with each act of kindness and every hand reached out in solidarity. As Maria says, “Giving Kitchen gives peace of mind.”

If you want to support more stories like Maria’s, join us in supporting Giving Kitchen’s mission. If you’re a food service worker experiencing a crisis, ask for help today. Our community is ready to stand with you.

Fund the critical need: By donating to Giving Kitchen, you’re standing alongside food service workers—our friends, neighbors, and loved ones—who may be facing their own moments of crisis. Your support means more relief, more hope, and a stronger, more caring community.

Let’s keep extending that warmth and encouragement.
Donate today and help support food service workers in crisis.
Together, we can make sure no one in our industry faces hardship alone.