A light in the darkness: Widow finds hope, faith, food and financial relief at The Salvation Army Puyallup Valley Corps

In March 2023, Maricel Petrone was in her darkest hour. After 30 years together, she just lost her husband. She was trying to navigate life without him, figuring out how to pay the bills while caring for her three boys, two of whom have autism and one with acute needs.

“I was frozen and weak (in grief). I felt so lonely and didn’t know what to do,” said Maricel. “My friend came over to my house, knocked on my door and said, ‘let’s go to The Salvation Army’.”

Maricel and her friend first received assistance from The Salvation Army Puyallup Valley Corps’ Hope Market client-choice food pantry to help feed her family. However, she had more financial needs, especially to cover funeral expenses.

“I felt like I needed a miracle. Somehow, I need to bury my husband,” said Maricel. “I heard this angel say, ‘we can help you’. It was Stacy (Bleuel). I will never forget her voice.”

The Salvation Army provided financial support to help Maricel cover funeral expenses, as well as utility and mortgage payment assistance. Her kids also received back-to-school clothes and Christmas gifts from The Salvation Army.

“The ‘salvation’ part of The Salvation Army is not just a word for me. They saved my family and me, not only by easing our financial struggles, but also offering us food and emotional support,” said Maricel. “Stacy guides me with no judgement at all.”

Maricel was struggling with her faith because her husband died while under the care of medical professionals. She didn’t want to go through a lengthy legal process and experience the emotional heartache again. She has also been undergoing cancer treatment.

“My faith is still there 100%. One of the strengths I have is my The Salvation Army family. I’m thankful for everyone helping me to hold my faith and reminding me that in the darkest time, God never gives up on us,” said Maricel.

Maricel has been receiving support from The Salvation Army Puyallup Corps for two years and hopes to someday “pay it forward” by donating food and clothes.

“Even in the struggle, I still see the light out there,” said Maricel. “Coming here (to The Salvation Army) makes me feel like not giving up. Don’t lose hope. Don’t’ be embarrassed to ask for help.”