Giving Kitchen Gives Grace: Ashley’s Story of Recovery and Support
Ashley has been part of the food service industry for 5–10 years, working as a crew member in Bradenton, FL. But when illness required her to undergo a procedure, she had to step away from work — and with that, her main source of income.
“I was going through a procedure that took time away from my livelihood, and Giving Kitchen was able to help relieve some of the stress due to my loss of income.”
Through a referral from a social worker, Ashley applied for financial assistance. “It was very simple,” she said. Giving Kitchen stepped in to help pay two months of her rent and electric bill — a lifeline that prevented “a more serious financial setback” during her recovery.
“It was a relief to not have the added stress for the time I was out of work. If I didn’t receive the assistance, I would have had a more serious financial setback to recover from.”
Now, Ashley is “doing okay” and getting back to life with friends and loved ones. Her advice to anyone hesitant to reach out?
“Put away your shame and reach out. It’s difficult to admit sometimes we are in need, but Giving Kitchen was very helpful and understanding of the circumstances I was going through.”
When asked to sum it up, she didn’t hesitate:
“Giving Kitchen gives grace.”
