During the pandemic, Central Florida experienced record numbers of people looking for food assistance. Thanks to an outpouring of support from the community, Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida increased food distribution from 150,000 to 300,000 meals a day.
After schools and businesses reopened, and people started to return to work, food distribution waned, but not for long. In 2022, Central Florida families faced one challenge after another, with inflation and two hurricanes impacting residents. Too often, household budget shortfalls led to devastating choices like skipping meals to pay rent. Food distribution levels once again climbed to 300,000 meals a day.
“Coming out of the pandemic, we were hit with rent going up, house prices going up, and many people, their jobs and their income did not go up to keep up with the inflation,” explains Imam Muhammad Musri, president of the Islamic Society of Central Florida.
“I went to buy a head of lettuce the other day,” Laurie explains. “They wanted $4 for a head of lettuce. I can’t afford that just for a head of lettuce that isn’t going to last maybe one or two meals in our home.”
Like many families, Laurie’s fixed income has not kept pace with the rising cost of food and other essentials. The shortfall in a family’s budget can force impossible choices between paying for necessary medications or rent and having food on the table.
“I would never let my grandson go hungry,” says Laurie. “As an adult, I’ve spent days without being able to eat before finding the Neighborhood Center and Second Harvest.”
She is not alone in feeling the pinch of inflation. This fall, an average of 250 people a day search Second Harvest’s Food Finder for help with food assistance. The online search tool helps locate nearby emergency food pantries and distribution days and times.
“The need just builds every day to where we’re seeing at least five to six new families every day,” explains Trish Kry, executive director at The Neighborhood Center of South Lake.
Families trying to stretch a limited budget often remove fresh, healthy food items from their shopping carts and replace them with calorie-dense and nutritionally-deficient food. Six boxes of macaroni and cheese fill more bellies than a container of blueberries. By providing fresh produce to families facing hunger, Second Harvest and its feeding partners can improve our community’s health, one meal at a time.
On a recent visit to The Neighborhood Center, Laurie’s eyes lit up when she saw the fresh produce, particularly broccoli florets, loaded into her cart.
“I know my grandson will grab that bag and eat right out of it when he gets home,” said Laurie.
Your financial support of Second Harvest provides meals and a lifeline for families like Laurie’s. A $10 gift can provide 40 meals today – and hope for a happier, healthier tomorrow.
“You’ve been a blessing to my family and many families in the Central Florida area. Thank you.”
