One day a few weeks ago, Pat Paules almost broke down in tears. These were tears of joy, not sadness, as she accepted a donation to benefit the food bank she oversees as part of Mount Joy Helping Services.

"We received $5,000 in gift cards from Giant," she said. "I was not expecting it, and when they presented the gift, I almost cried."

Employees of the Mount Joy Giant Food Store collected money for the gift cards through at-register donations from customers.

"The management team at Giant has always wanted to focus on the people who live in the community they serve," Paules stated. "This was a way for them to give back. They have always been very supportive of us and everything we do."

In addition to providing financial support, Giant has encouraged employees to spend time volunteering at the organization, she said.

The gift cards, which Paules emphasized will be used to purchase items for the food bank and will not be given directly to clients, will help Mount Joy Helping Services provide items to people in need.

"Last year, 1,105 households and 2,585 people used our services," she remarked. "We had 111 new households sign up within the last year, and that's the highest amount of new sign-ups we've ever had."

Mount Joy Helping Services, located at the corner of Mount Joy and Concord streets, provides food and household items such as toiletries. It also offers financial services and a furniture bank.

"There is more need than ever for our services," said Paules. "I want people to realize we are here for them, and if they need help or are in dire need of food for any reason, I want them to come to us."

Paules said she understands firsthand what clients are feeling.

"My dad died when I was 14, and I know how hard my mom worked, so I realize what people are going through," she explained. "I want them to know there is help available, and I want them to be respected in the community. Help is here."