OKC Thunder, Homeland Help Mother Of 9 With $500 Shopping Spree

Over the past year, food prices have skyrocketed. On Sunday, one Oklahoma City family got an extra boost from the Oklahoma City Thunder and Homeland.

“Everything goes up except your salary,” said Maria Rodriguez, shopping spree recipient.

Rodriguez’s is a mother with several mouths to feed. Her family was selected to receive a $500 shopping spree through the YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City Clubhouse.

“I’m very grateful because some days we don't have enough to eat,” said Rodriguez.

This is one of four shopping sprees the Thunder participates in each season with Homeland, Thunder player Jalen Williams helped Rodriguez fill up two carts of groceries at the Homeland store on NE 26th Street on Sunday.

“It's something we take for granted, I know I do,” said Thunder player Jalen Williams. “I’m just looking at the prices of milk, it really opened my eyes.”

Inflation on groceries is hitting everyone’s wallet right now causing some to make some tough decisions.

“They’re so ridiculous,” said shopper Santania Mack about the prices. “I have to limit my decisions on the junk food and things that are more important.”

However, many didn’t let the high prices stop them from buying for the Super Bowl.

“Everybody started coming in after 12 o’clock” said Homeland employee Sheila Wright. “In our deli department we have the Super Bowl wings going on and all the different other kinds of chicken, everybody's getting their food for the Super Bowl.”

As for Rodriguez, she says she is thankful she doesn’t have to worry about the prices, this time.

“She's a mom, she knew what she was going for, I felt kind of useless,” Williams said. “I think I've been on both ends of it where I wasn't in this position to be able to help anybody now that I am, I'm extremely grateful for that.”

After the shopping spree, Rodriguez left with a $500 gift card to use later.