The inspiring stories behind the faces of ONT

The help my family got at ONT made me realize I could make a difference in someone else's life.

Justin is an Amesbury resident. He has courageously shared his personal story to inspire others who may be struggling and to show ONT donors that they have made a real difference in his life.
Help fight hunger today!

Neighbors taking care of the neighborhood

Jim Smith is a Merrimac resident. He and his wife Pat have been volunteering at ONT for more than 14 years. For Jim, volunteering at Our Neighbors' Table is just part of being a neighbor taking care of the neighborhood. 

What inspires you? 

Providing for my family

Dot relied on the pantry at ONT to help her and her children through tough times. Proudly, she returned as a volunteer to help make a difference for others.
I was so ashamed. I felt so humiliated on the drive over. 
The day I came to ONT, I walked in and met Lori. She chatted with me about regular things, like I had just met her in the grocery store. She treated me like a normal human being. After that, I left with my head held high. I felt like I left with my dignity intact – on my way over I felt like I was losing it by asking for help.

Carrying On My Mother's Legacy

Growing up in an Italian family, I was immersed in the culture of food. I believe that good food is more than just sustenance. Food unites us all as human beings. 

Tony And Delia Are Inspired By Those Who Serve
After our retirements a few years ago my wife Delia and I moved to Amesbury. On our dog walks through downtown we usually encountered Dottie Johnson working at The Greenery Designs. I knew Dottie from our previous work life in Andover. She asked us how we were spending our time when weren’t traveling and as was her way, Dottie urged us to look into volunteering at Our Neighbors Table. Since we are still traveling quite a bit we were put on the ‘sub list’. We began by working occasional Fridays or Saturdays at the ONT Food Pantry. We then got calls to assist at the Wednesday afternoon dinners. We get calls whenever we are in town and if we are available we gladly agree to help.

We are so in awe of the many volunteers who give of their time every week...some for many years. They are a loving and giving group and are eager to welcome new volunteers. It is a rewarding experience! Try it!!!
Who inspires you? Share your inspiring story. Live their legacy. Get involved and help fight hunger today!