Nira's Story: A Journey of Community and Compassion
In the heart of our vibrant food service community, every individual's story is a testament to the collective spirit and resilience we share. Her story and experience with Asking For Help from Giving Kitchen shows the power of solidarity, understanding, and mutual support that flows within our community, especially during challenging times.
Nira has been in the restaurant industry for 18+ years and lives with her wife in Nashville, TN, and is a server at a popular Downtown Broadway Street bar.
"There is also a freedom in our industry. I’m also proud to say, that I am great at my job, I enjoy giving a wonderful experience to my guests. I like standing out, I challenge myself to be memorable."
Nira's passion for the food service industry goes beyond just a career—it's where her creativity, enthusiasm, and dedication found their true expression. For Nira, this wasn't merely a job, but a calling that enabled her to create experiences and connections with the locals and tourists visiting Nashville.
Discovering Giving Kitchen
As the pandemic posed unprecedented challenges, it was through the recommendation of her general manager that Nira learned about the resources available through Giving Kitchen. It highlighted the importance of reaching out, sharing our struggles, and learning from one another. "Almost every day, I try to spread the word to my co-workers and fellow industry peeps," says Nira.
Nira's Crisis and Seeking Support
Faced with health concerns and financial instability, Nira, guided by the spirit of community and encouragement from fellow food service workers, has reached out and received help from Giving Kitchen three times since she first heard about Giving Kitchen in 2020.
"I can’t even believe something like this exists. I feel so blessed that The Giving Kitchen always had/has my back, and the backs of all service industry workers."
Nira states that if she didn’t receive help, she would have struggled through; but, she didn’t have to [after she received help from Giving Kitchen.] As stressful as it is was when finances take a hit because of things beyond our control; Nira couldn’t be more thankful to Giving Kitchen for their support.
“Giving Kitchen helps us to stay on our feet. Giving Kitchen keeps us positive when it may feel like there’s no way to do that.”
Compassion and care from Giving Kitchen's case management team
Nira reports the application process is by far the easiest most efficient process out there. Each time she has asked for help, she has received a text or a call the day of, or the very next day — No exaggeration! Giving Kitchen is so prompt, and the steps are so easy to get through. Not only that, but the caseworkers are readily available to answer any questions and help you through the application process. When Nira was out of work for almost a month with her second crisis, she spent a lot of time communicating with her case manager who was always available and personable, cheerful, and genuine.
The Ripple Effect of Community Support
Nira's experience is a story of how extending a helping hand can have a profound impact, fostering a sense of belonging and resilience. It's a reminder that every act of support, big or small, enriches our community, encouraging others to give and seek help without hesitation. Nira mentions not to be ashamed of Asking For Help, that financial assistance and help are there for this exact moment.
Together, we are Giving Kitchen
Nira's journey is not just her own, but a reflection of our collective spirit. It underscores the importance of community, empathy, and mutual support—principles that are at the heart of everything we do. Through shared experiences, challenges, and triumphs, we're reminded of the resilience and compassion that define us. An encouragement to lean on each other, share your stories, and reach out when you need a hand.
Our commitment goes beyond just providing assistance; it's about building a food service industry that meets each crisis with compassion and care.
Let's continue to foster this community by spreading our mission that together, we are Giving Kitchen. We help food service workers. If you or someone you know is a food service worker experiencing a crisis, please ask for help from Giving Kitchen.