Scarlet’s Story: Finding Hope and a Full Plate

Scarlet is now a freshman in college, working hard to build the future she once only dreamed of, but her journey to get here has been anything but easy.

Scarlet spent much of her childhood being passed from one family member to another. Her parents struggled with addiction and were often mentally and physically abusive. What little money they
had was usually spent on alcohol and cigarettes. Scarlet remembers times when there was nothing to eat and she and her mom would go dumpster diving, searching for anything that could fill their stomachs. She admits to stealing food once, but every now and then she would wake up to find the house full of groceries, a rare and cherished surprise.

Scarlet learned to “teach herself not to eat much,” rationing small portions so food would last as long as possible. She was living in Louisiana when her aunt Sarah, her mother’s sister, took her and her two younger siblings in. Sarah was single and not necessarily prepared to care for three hungry children, but she opened her home and did her best to give them stability. Even with her love and good intentions, money was tight and the cupboards were
often bare.

Over the years, Sarah dated a few men. One of those men hurt Scarlet deeply. Wanting to give the children a safer, more
supportive environment, Sarah decided to move closer to family. Although that move provided emotional support, the financial strain continued, and food insecurity remained a constant presence in their lives.

Everything began to change when Scarlet was introduced to the Northmen Den in 8th grade. For the first time, she had consistent access to nutritious food and snacks. She remembers being able to
take home multiple bags of food each week so her family could enjoy full meals together over the weekend. “The Den was a place that brightened my day no matter how dark things felt,” Scarlet said. “The volunteers were so welcoming and kind. The vibes were immaculate.”

That care stayed with her. Even after graduation, the Northmen Den continued to check in and connect her with services to help her stay fed and supported as she transitioned into college life.

The volunteers made sure she knew she wasn’t alone, and before she left for school, they surprised her with a college readiness kit. Inside was a handmade quilt donated by the Servant Hearts
Quilting Club, picked out just for her in her favorite color. “It was my first brand new blanket,” Scarlet shared. “I’ll never forget how special that made me feel.”

Scarlet’s two younger siblings still visit the Northmen Den regularly, and the family continues to feel the impact of the care they began receiving years ago. Scarlet credits Northmen Den Youth Services with helping her make it as far as she has in life. She says the Den didn’t just feed her body, it fed her hope.

Now, Scarlet is looking ahead to a new chapter. She’s focused on her college studies, and she plans to start volunteering with Northmen Den to give back to the organization that gave so much to her.

Scarlet’s story is a powerful reminder that food can be so much more than nourishment. For many students, it’s a source of comfort, stability, and the belief that someone truly cares.

You can help students like Scarlet find hope and a full plate. Every donation makes a real difference for local kids who rely on the Northmen Den. Together, we can ensure that no student in our
community goes hungry.

Some names and details of this story have been changed to protect the identity of those involved, but the heart of the story is
fully true.

Some names and details of this story have been changed to protect the identity of those involved, but the heart of the story is fully true.