Stories

Veronica - Pantry Client & Volunteer

Q&A

Veronica is a long-time client and volunteer with the Bar Harbor Food Pantry, first getting involved over 6 years ago. In this interview Veronica chats with Vera, BHFP administrative assistant, about what first brought her to the pantry, and why she’s continued to stay engaged as a volunteer. 

Vera: I was asking Jenny when you first got involved with the organization and she said it was before her time. When and how did you first get involved? 

Veronica: I don’t quite remember. But I was definitely a client first and it was even before Jenny started. I first came out of necessity, true necessity. At the time I was living and working in Ellsworth. The restaurant I was working for unexpectedly closed, so I began looking for work, but it was a challenge. Winter jobs were really scarce. And I just didn’t have enough money to get food. I began losing weight. I got really skinny, Vera, I was like 120 pounds at 5’7”.  

Vera: Do you remember what it was like, first coming into the pantry?

Veronica: It was hard to come in the first time. I felt so guilty. But once I got there, it was amazing. You were really made to feel like a customer. There was no judgement. And, of course, it was a load off. Just like, wow, I can eat. Especially because there was produce and other fresh foods, things I actually wanted to eat. It was also unlike anywhere else I had shopped. People really cared. I’d be headed out and someone would stop me: “Oh, did you get your almond milk? Because I know you like almond milk. I know you don’t like to drink cow’s milk because of this and that.” It’s like that attention and care. You guys really embrace everyone, you allow everyone into your life and vice versa. We’re always checking in on eachother, sharing stories of our children. That’s just community. 

Vera: Having come in as a client, how did you begin volunteering?

Veronica: I started helping out a little bit at the pantry, repackaging food in the back. Then I began coming in to help unload the truck because during winter it was a really hard job and there was a shortage of volunteers. From there I started going over to spend time at Serendipity.I used to, well before covid, love just going into Serendipity to sit and chat with the other volunteers. It was like the village barbershop, everyone telling stories. And man, what wild stories I’ve heard there.

Vera: Did you know the other volunteers before Serendipity?

Veronica: No, none of them! I didn’t know Barb, I didn’t know Bernice, I didn’t know any of them. I remember one day I got in and Barbara was in the back near the leather jackets. She says, Veronica, these leather jackets just came in. Look at this one, this one’s just right for you. She had been saving this jacket for me, knowing I would love it. She was right. It was so beautiful, fit like a glove. I still have it. But that’s just the thing. We had barely talked a few times but she saw something and thought of me. And all the ladies do that. It doesn’t matter how long they’ve known you, they care. 

Vera: People often ask why a pantry runs a clothing store. Having shopped and volunteered at both places, how do you see the connection between the two?

Veronica: When you’re volunteering at the pantry you’ll see some families that are in dire need, of food but also of clothing. So Jenny will give these families gift certificates to shop at Serendipity. It’s just such a lovely philosophy. While she does have to keep the doors open, it’s not just about profit—it’s really about making sure people have what they need. In both places you provide services to the community and create community. 

Vera: What would you say to someone who is considering getting involved with the organization? 

Veronica: Be prepared to make friends. Be prepared to make family. Just be prepared to get to know your community, to learn about people who live in your community, or visit your community. It truly opens your heart, opens your mind to different stories.