Volunteer Delivery Drivers

The Humanitarian Service Project

Senior Citizen Project

Beatrice X

Receiving Groceries Since 2007

Monthly deliveries include:

7 selections of fresh vegetables

6 selections of fresh fruits

7 varieties of frozen meats

5 bags of non-perishables

1 bag of paper products and personal care items

Gifts from a Secret Pal

          With snow on the ground and temperatures below freezing, it’s a good thing that Beatrice’s gas has been turned back on after having been off for three months.  Unfortunately, that’s just one indicator of how difficult things have been for this 73-year old, who is new to the Senior Citizen Project.  Prior to receiving  assistance from the Humanitarian Service Project, she also had to run from food pantry to food pantry just to get food.  Now, she can count on a beautiful selection of fresh fruits and vegetables, frozen meats, and non-perishables that include baking supplies.  Plus, she’s thrilled with the white and pink grapefruit which she hasn’t been able to afford.

           As you are well aware, our mission is to help seniors in poverty throughout DuPage and Kane counties. Here at HSP we see the first hand effects of crushing poverty every day. Whenever we talk to one of our 115 seniors, many of them share what’s been going on in their lives.  Some being good and some being very sad.  Our hearts always go out to them.  Many times we wonder just how they can get by with so many illnesses and financial troubles  creating frustration and worry which always takes a high toll on them.  For too many, sharing their stress of not being able to purchase the things they need is compounded simply by being old.  Despite these challenges, some of our seniors always seem to find something cheery to talk about in their lives.  Many are very strong and courageous.  They face each day with a smile, feeling grateful and counting the few blessings they have.  It is an inspiration for us to see their warm spirits remain positive in the face of difficult   adversities.

           Although she grew up in Mississippi, Beatrice  has called this area home for the past 17 years.  Before her husband’s death in 1962, they had five children, three of whom are still living. Two of the children live in the area, and Beatrice is in contact with them regularly.  One child is in prison.  She also has six grandchildren but doesn’t see them often. She and her one sister stay in touch but her sister is responsible for her spouse who is in a nursing home.  Although she values the connections with her family, Beatrice has little day-to-day support.  Financially, she is completely on her own.

           Her health issues include very bad knees, back problems, arthritis, high cholesterol, emphysema, and borderline diabetes.  She tries to stay active through doing work around the house and mowing the lawn.  She’s also out quite a bit, including visits with her mom who is still living.  At home, she enjoys reading newspapers and magazines.  Her interests include sewing, card games, bingo, and golf (which, of course, she cannot afford right now).

           Beatrice has a monthly income of $1,507.  Her rent and monthly expenses total $796.  Given some of her specific health problems, eating right is especially important.  With assistance from HSP, her monthly delivery of nutritious food will ensure that she has the kind of food she needs to stay healthy and active.  We are so happy to welcome Beatrice  to the HSP family.  Together, we will help her get through these challenging times.

Things to Remember about Beatrice

 Her birthday is February 17, 1934; she will turn 74 in 2008

Her monthly income is $1,507

Her favorite flower is the yellow rose

Her favorite flower is blue