Every time Tosha and Rod help a neighbor facing difficult circumstances, they think about their son.
Their volunteer work has become deeply personal ever since their adult son developed a substance abuse disorder, leading to homelessness.
In support of their son and wider community, Tosha and Rod have focused their efforts on serving neighbors experiencing homelessness for the past five years. That’s why, when the couple heard about the pop-up medical clinic that the Kansas Food Bank partners with, they immediately volunteered.
“It’s been incredible to see people actually get the help they need,” Tosha says. “It’s not just medical care — it’s food, supplies, and, most importantly, a sense that someone cares about them.”
Rod works full-time in the aerospace industry, but that doesn’t stop him from donating as much time as possible to the cause. And when Tosha underwent back surgery, she returned to volunteer at the pop-up just three weeks later.
“Some of the people we helped are now helping others,” Rod said. “They’ve gotten on their feet and want to give back.”
When asked how the couple would encourage others to get involved, their answer was simple — just start. Tosha says, “You will never walk away wishing you hadn’t helped!”