‘Thank you Catholic Charities for keeping me fed and giving me hope:’ Lowell Resident Finds Support at Merrimack Valley

Omar Lopez never expected to discover what’s important in life while standing in line at a food pantry on a cold winter day. 

“The enlightenment I’ve found from these hard times is the realization that I am no better than any person standing in line,” said Omar, who visits Catholic Charities’ Lowell Food Pantry a few times a month. “I used to work and make a decent amount of money, but this experience has given me a lot of clarity and perspective. We are all people. We are all human beings who need support.” 

Having worked for almost 20 years in manufacturing warehouses, Omar had always had a steady income that allowed him to own his own home in Lowell, where he was raised. When Omar tore both his meniscus and a ligament on the job in 2022, however, he was left unemployed and unable to pay his mortgage. Soon, everyday bills and groceries became a burden, too. 

“I almost lost my home,” he said. “And I had a lot of hardship just getting food on the table for myself.”  

Fortunately, Omar says, Catholic Charities Boston has been there for him through it all.  

“After my injury, I started going to the food pantry. I don’t go every week but it’s enough to help me get by. The staff there have been incredible.” 

Standing in line, surrounded by parents pushing newborn babies in strollers, elderly and disabled individuals, veterans, and high school students, Omar said he recognizes the pervasive need in his community now more than ever before. 

“I see it with my own eyes,” he said. “It’s one thing to read about it, but this is real life. People are struggling – moms with babies, and people like me who want to be doing more but just aren’t healthy enough.” 

This Thanksgiving, Omar will receive a gift card to purchase a turkey and Thanksgiving sides for himself and his roommate over the holiday. From turkey soup to turkey sandwiches, Omar said the gift card will help supply them with nourishing meals for the week.  

“All I can say is thank you, Catholic Charities, for keeping me fed, keeping me mobile, and giving me that sense of hope. There’s still hope that when this is all over, I can be that guy who gives back. If I ever hit a lottery win, Catholic Charities will be the first place I go.” 

To learn more about how you can support clients in need like Omar, visit our Ways to Give page. To learn more about Catholic Charities food assistance services, click here.