Sherrie's Resilience: A Veteran Finds Fuel and Community at the Food Pantry
As St. Joseph Center celebrates 50 years of impact, we are proud to share Sherrie’s story—one of resilience, community, and the power of nutritious food to support health and stability.
A Venice native and disabled Veteran, Sherrie embodies resilience. After serving in the military for over 20 years, she returned home when her mother became ill. Shortly after, her own health took a turn, leading to a diagnosis of Type 1 Diabetes.
“They have become an extended family to me—when I’m there, I don’t feel ashamed to get help. They’ve never made me feel low. It’s community building, not just a job.”
It was through the Venice Family Clinic that Sherrie was referred to St. Joseph Center. While initially seeking housing assistance, she connected with the Food Pantry program. For Sherrie, who is currently housed but manages a household of five and prioritizes healthy eating to manage her diabetes, the pantry has been a lifeline.
During the Thanksgiving holiday, Sherrie was among the nearly 2,000 clients who received assistance at St. Joseph Center’s annual Turkey Distribution, which provided her household with a whole turkey and all the sides for a holiday meal.
“I don’t feel ashamed to get help. They’ve never made me feel low.”
Sherrie shared, “They have become an extended family to me—when I’m there, I don’t feel ashamed to get help. They’ve never made me feel low. It’s community building, not just a job. I really appreciate what they do for us.”
Sherrie, who retired from federal employment in 2018, loves to cook and is grateful the pantry provides whole, non-processed foods. “It’s the fuel to power your day, life, and brain,” she notes, reflecting on how the pantry enables her to choose healthier options essential for managing her health.
Beyond the food, Sherrie highlights the deeply compassionate atmosphere. She recalled being at her lowest point, wanting to give up, when a kind encounter with an SJC security guard, Ace, changed everything. “He received me and didn’t judge me. He was kind—gave me helpful information… I’ve been coming ever since,” she shared. This reflects St. Joseph Center’s commitment to receiving and treating everyone experiencing homelessness or facing life crises with dignity.
“I do the best I can with what I’ve got.”
A woman with a strong faith and community spirit, Sherrie does what she can to give back—sharing excess food with neighbors and even bringing water to St. Joseph Center staff on hot days to show her appreciation. Looking ahead, her dream is simple: to start a homestead with her father and grow their own food.
For now, Sherrie lives by her personal philosophy: “I do the best I can with what I’ve got.”
About the Authors
Sherrie L. Peterson is a Venice native, disabled veteran, and proud client and supporter of St. Joseph Center. Ty Andrews is St. Joseph Center’s Senior Communications Specialist, who finds inspiration in uplifting St. Joseph Center’s mission through members like Sherrie.
