Hudson woman, 80, tirelessly working to feed those in need

Ruth Riozzi is called the "Mother Teresa of Hudson." For years, she’s made sure those in need don’t go without food.

In the more than 30 years since she started a food pantry with the help of St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Hudson, she says the needs have changed with the pandemic making them even greater.

"I say to them, ‘picture yourself with a brown paper bag, and you have all your earthly possessions in that bag. What do you need to start over?’"

With all she’s seen, has her finger on the pulse of the city and along with food and clothing, she says people need affordable housing.

At 80 years old, she still credits her parents for the compassion she’s learned to give out, along with the food.

Even though she’s thought of retiring, she can’t right now. There’s more work to do.

Hear about a heartbreaking story she recalls from someone in need by watching the video of Elaine Houston’s story.