I appreciate the Butler Eagle’s coverage of food insecurity in this county. Thank you.

As coordinators of two food distribution efforts, my wife and I have firsthand experience with the complexities of food insecurity.

We reside in the largest food wilderness in this county. With no grocery stores, we have fewer sources of fresh, nutritious food than the rest of the county. The need is great.

Many individuals, businesses and some churches help us. In return, the burden on society is reduced in a small way.

The hardest part of what we do is found in addressing the stigma and resistance we encounter.

Some of your friends, family members, co-workers and neighbors are silently suffering because of the stigma. It stops people from accepting the food they need.

The resistance we encounter is related. Some local residents and government servants actively oppose our work. This is hidden truth.

As the need has increased in recent years, I’ve personally had to address resistance. It’s a symptom of prejudicial stigma.

Some have taken steps to make our work harder. Others have sent letters criticizing our property for not “meeting their expectations.” These actions do nothing to benefit Butler County citizens, but it has not stopped us.

As light illuminates darkness, more concerned Butler County residents have stepped up to help. They do unto others as they would have done to them. Praise God!

— John Pistorius, Christ’s Family Church, Manna From Heaven Project, and Petroleum Valley Food Cupboard