In Summer 2015, I started a food pantry that's open to anyone in my town. We had a very slow start, but after a month or two, we skyrocketed. Almost forty people started coming for food, our Facebook page was liked by someone new every second, and every community group in town knew about us and wanted to donate their food, or their time. At first, it was just me and my mom organizing the food pantry and running the finances and the donations, but eventually our operations demanded the help of an executive board and a herd of monthly volunteers. We've grown from four little shelves with cans and some cereal into a whole room of groceries, a wall of shelves filled with toiletries, and a book shelf fully stocked with kid's books for whoever wants to take them in addition to their food.

We get almost 50 clients in the three hours a month that we're open, and we serve anyone, from families who struggle to put food on the table to those who have lost their jobs to those whose medical conditions cost so much that it takes up their already slim paychecks. They can take anywhere from 15-20 food items every time and they come. By the way they thank us , you would think Mac and Cheese, Peanut Butter, and a box of cereal is worth a million dollars. However, I realize that these items can be the difference between them not eating for the week and them having a meal on the table. Despite all their thanks, I should be the one thanking them, because starting this food pantry and interacting with them has changed my entire life.

The people I meet and their stories could make anyone cry. The things they've been through and the tribulations they've dealt with inspire me every day to be a stronger person. I don't think I could ever take anything for granted anymore- I'd feel too guilty. I already find myself asking questions about the things I usually wouldn't think twice about. How can I complain when I don't get the newest iPhone when a little boy has to ask me if he can take a new toothbrush since his mother is already over their item limit? Am I too spoiled when I think taking out a $20 bill without a problem is a commonality of everyday life and not a privilege? How can I say that I'm not blessed when I see an elderly woman taking food for the grandchildren she raises all by herself? Why do I complain about homework when I encounter children who may never get the chance to go to college? Should I feel neglected when there's one thing I didn't get for Christmas that I wanted when there'a a mother out there who can't afford any gifts for any of her children?

Some of our clients are in the worst situations you could ever imagine. But I've never seen a single one without a smile on their face. They know better than anyone that when you go through bad times, you have to remain positive because there's always someone who might be struggling more. When I stumble on a rough patch, I know it can always be worse, and I have to stay optimistic if I want to get through it.

I've never believed that everything I have is a right. At least, I hope I haven't. My mother grew up in a family of five children and every cent was tight, so she didn't get the luxuries that we can afford now. She made it clear to me and my brother that we were blessed for everything we have and that if we were lucky enough to live well, we had a responsibility to help those who don't. Giving back to those who are less fortunate was pegged as something that we could do to help change the lives of others, but no one let on that it would change me too.

The Kearny Community Food Pantry serves the needy in the town of Kearny, New Jersey. To donate, volunteer, or learn more, please visit/message us at our Facebook page.