SVdP is more than food assistance for Roy

At 80 years old, Roy Clark spent much of his life working hard to provide for himself and his family. A retired mechanic, truck driver, and machinist, Roy was accustomed to making ends meet with his own hard work. But after losing his wife of 33 years to lung cancer last year, his world changed in ways he never expected. 

Today, he finds himself navigating life on a limited retirement income, but he is never alone. His local St. Vincent de Paul food pantry and Vincentian volunteers help ensure he has food on the table every month while their visits bring companionship and encouragement. 

After losing his wife, Roy lost a portion of their household income, leaving him to manage his expenses on a fixed retirement income of only about $1,000 every month. After paying his mortgage and utilities, there is little left for groceries, gas, or unexpected expenses. With a bad knee limiting his mobility and an aging car limiting how far he can travel, even everyday tasks have become challenging. 

“I never thought I would have to go through what I'm going through now,” Roy said. 

Despite these challenges, Roy continues to approach life with a positive outlook, doing everything he can to stretch his limited income. But some months, even the most resourceful person couldn’t make it on his budget. His sister visits when she can, and his two sons live out of state, so when he needs help, he knows he can count on St. Vincent de Paul.   

“St. Vincent de Paul volunteers have come deliver a food box while I've had nothing,” he said. “They've helped me out so much. They continue to help me.” 

Having a dependable source of food assistance and volunteers who take the time to check on him provides reassurance as he navigates life on his own. In addition, the support he receives from Vincentian volunteers extends beyond receiving a food box.  

“They come over, talk to me, help me out with paperwork. I feel great when they visit me. They make my day,” Roy said. “They make me feel good and uplift my spirit.” 

Still grieving the loss of his wife, Roy cherishes these moments of connection. He remembers meeting her at a Denny's restaurant, where the two talked for hours. Just two months later, they were married. He misses her every day, but the kindness of the Vincentians helps brighten some of his hardest days. 

“Without the support St. Vincent de Paul's giving me, I don't know what I'd do. I'd be starving,” Roy said. 

As Roy looks toward the future, he hopes for greater stability and the freedom to spend less time worrying about making ends meet and more time enjoying life. And through it all, Roy knows he can turn to the Vincentians, who remind him that he doesn't have to face life's challenges alone.