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Ruby Allen grew up understanding the value of working hard — taking care of animals and tending to the garden on her family’s farm in rural Kennett, Missouri.

Today, her hard work continues as she spends many weekdays volunteering to sort food at The Food Bank.

“I wake up every day looking forward to my time at Ozarks Food Harvest,” the 58-year-old shared. “I believe it’s important to help people that are hungry.”

Allen volunteers to give back to those in need because she knows one day she might be the one to need help.

Raised in a large family with 11 brothers and sisters, Allen helped her mother take care of the eight younger siblings.

“My life was challenging growing up, but we made it through,” she said.

After moving to Springfield to be closer to family, Allen began looking for a more meaningful way to spend her days. She began volunteering five years ago. Just since the first of the year she has donated 73 hours of time to help hungry people in the Ozarks.

“I have loved meeting new people and learning about all the different foods that come through,” Allen said. “I think I have sorted just about every type of food there is.”

During Allen’s volunteer sessions, she has enjoyed staying active and having fun while giving back to the community.

“I like to encourage people to volunteer here,” she shared. “Everybody laughs and talks while we work. We have a lot of fun.”

 

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