FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) – The team at Poverello House works together every day to put food on the table for people in need.
“It’s a very humbling experience,” says executive chef Ashley McPhearson. “It’s very nice to be able to give back, and like, give that dignity.”
McPhearson only became the executive chef three weeks ago. With more people in need this holiday season, starting a new position isn’t the only pressure she’s feeling.
“The more pressure, the better,” she said. “I thrive under pressure.”
Despite higher demand amid funding cuts and the ripple effect still being felt from the loss of SNAP benefits during the government shutdown, that attitude is something many employees have adopted.
“We’re not going to make our guests suffer because we’re not getting the right funding,” says Poverello House COO Paul Stack. Stack explains that while they may have to stretch what they have, now is more important than ever to make people feel at home.
It’s something the people they serve are thankful for.
“I’m blessed that I’m here,” says Then Rose.
“I don’t have a big family,” adds Rose Landrum. “I like coming here because Paul and them, they’re like family to me.”
The staff gives their best effort to serve people like Rose a home-cooked meal, especially during the holidays, with ham, turkey, potatoes, and all the other traditional Thanksgiving foods.
But even with smiling faces and positive outlooks, the reality is they’re working with less to serve more.
This season of giving, Poverello House is asking the community to help ensure they can continue making this happen for years to come.
https://abc30.com/post/poverello-house-holds-annual-thanksgiving-lunch-community/18219699/
