HR Recommended Giving Kitchen for Help — A Food Service Worker’s Story of Reaching Out When Hope Was Lost

Trigger Warning: Pregnancy Loss and Grief
This story contains discussion of stillbirth and pregnancy loss, which may be difficult for some readers. Please read with care, and Ask For Help if you are a food service worker in need of support.

After more than a decade on the line, Alexus, a lead cook in Michigan, has built a career rooted in care and craft. “I have a passion for cooking i really enjoy and love what I do.” In August, her world shifted when she experienced the stillbirth of her daughter due to pregnancy complications. She was taken off work early and, like so many food service workers living close to the margins, she fell behind on bills with this unexpected emergency. With encouragement from her HR team, Alexus applied for help from Giving Kitchen and was awarded financial assistance from Giving Kitchen. The grant helped her stabilize housing by covering one month’s rent and catching up on past-due bills. Today, she shares, “I’m currently back at work.”

Alexus heard about Giving Kitchen from her employer and decided to reach out. “In August, I gave birth to an still born daughter due to pregnancy complications. I was taken off work early. Which led me to fall behind on our bills. I reached out to my HR department at work and was giving an list of organizations that would assist me. Giving Kitchen was one. I filled out the application, answered a couple of questions, and was able to receive financial assistance.” She described the application process as “Somewhat Simple,” and was honest that asking for help felt “Somewhat Difficult.” We’re grateful for her bravery in taking that step.

Alexus’s journey is her own, and Giving Kitchen was one part of her path toward steadier ground. We honor her resilience and voice. As she put it, “Giving Kitchen Gives Hope Even When U Lose It Within Yourself.” And to others who might be hesitant: “to give Giving Kitchen a try.”

Support Giving Kitchen’s mission: Help food service workers in crisis by donating, volunteering, or partnering to strengthen the safety net for our industry.

If you’re a food service worker navigating an unexpected crisis, you’re not alone—reach out to Giving Kitchen to see what support is available.