Allow me to introduce myself: my name is Ximena Salcedo.
I am Venezuelan, 10 years old, and a 5th grader at my community school, Monarch K8. I have been living in the United States for five years. My mom and I are both volunteers at Community Food Share, and we also do our weekly shopping here for fresh food and delicious cookies.
I want to share my story with you. Six years ago, we lived in a beautiful house in front of the mountains in Venezuela. I saw my grandparents, uncles, and cousins often. On weekends, my parents would spend time with their friends and I would with my friends. One day, suddenly everything changed, and my mom told me that, because of life and political circumstances we would be moving to the United States.
Adapting to the change was difficult for me and also for my parents. We were alone, with a different language, a different way of life, starting from scratch. But thank God we found Community Food Share, where we not only do our food shopping but also make friends and help everyone who comes looking for support with a smile.
Community Food Share has changed our lives by providing us with food and making us feel comfortable, welcomed, safe, and supported in an environment of inclusion and teamwork. Being a volunteer alongside my mom has taught me that with a smile, we can change a person’s bad day; a positive word or a hug makes all the difference.
We are grateful to God for everything we have been given, especially for being part of this wonderful community, where we truly feel we belong. I hope that our family’s story inspires others, giving them the hope and confidence they need to keep moving forward.
Let’s donate and be volunteer! Together, we can change lives within our community.
