“When I think of food insecurity on college campuses, it’s heartbreaking,” explains Naseeka Dixon, manager at the Knights Helping Knights Pantry at UCF. “Food is something everyone needs, and sometimes we all need a little help.” Naseeka knows what it’s like to ask for help. When her sister enrolled in college, it put even more stress on her mother to support both of them … [Read more...] about Naseeka’s Story of Hope & Courage
Shelby’s Story of Hope & Courage
As a single mother caring for three kids and a niece, Shelby considers herself a whiz at managing the household budget. She frequents thrift stores when the kids need new clothes, matches coupons with grocery store flyers and finds recipes to use up leftovers so that nothing goes to waste. “I don’t want people to think I don’t care or can’t care for my kids,” she explains. … [Read more...] about Shelby’s Story of Hope & Courage
Volunteer Spotlight: Sherry Birckhead
When Sherry Birckhead lost her job last year she brainstormed different ways to stay busy. She remembered hearing one of her favorite radio stations talk about Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida and the different ways that people could help out. Volunteers play an essential role in Second Harvest’s ability to distribute 63 million meals each year to people experiencing … [Read more...] about Volunteer Spotlight: Sherry Birckhead
Luzmary’s Story: “Dreams do come true.”
When Luzmary Gomez was 17, she found herself thousands of miles away from her hometown, her extended family and her friends. She fled the political unrest and violence in Venezuela with her mother and younger siblings for a chance at a better life. Luzmary arrived in Orlando unable to speak English and with limited skills in foodservice but was determined to overcome any … [Read more...] about Luzmary’s Story: “Dreams do come true.”
Sofi’s Story: “I feel like I can do anything.”
Originally from Haiti, Sofi left her home in pursuit of opportunity. She knew she had a deep passion for food and cooking. If she was given a chance to succeed, she knew she would take it. She and her husband moved to Orlando where he quickly found work as a dishwasher and she began working part-time at a theme park restaurant. The move proved to be an instant improvement for … [Read more...] about Sofi’s Story: “I feel like I can do anything.”