In the season of gratitude, meals and hope abound, thanks to the dedication and acts of kindness of hunger heroes across Central Florida. Here are five reasons to celebrate good things happening in our community. Volunteers Volunteers are the oxygen that keeps Second Harvest’s mission moving forward. Every day, individuals and groups lend a helping hand to sort, pack, … [Read more...] about Celebrating the Good: Five Reasons to Be Grateful
Helping Families Thrive
Every day, one in eight Central Florida neighbors—and one in six kids—faces hunger. Amy is one of them. Becoming a mother is a significant milestone for Amy. She stepped away from her career as a professional chef to stay at home and raise her son. When her boyfriend lost his job, Amy sought ways to stretch their budget without compromising nutrition. She discovered a food … [Read more...] about Helping Families Thrive
“It’s Not a Job, It’s a Career.”
“I came in with absolutely no skills, and they taught me,” says Jeremy, reflecting on how far he’s come on his career journey. “And now I’m doing everything I wanted to do in the kitchen.” A health crisis and his mom’s death sent Jeremy into a tailspin. He lost his job and tried working odd jobs to provide for his growing family. He and his wife were expecting another child. … [Read more...] about “It’s Not a Job, It’s a Career.”
Creating a Legacy of Hope
Jim and Lynda Swenk only recall experiencing food insecurity when they lived independently and attended college. “We are so grateful that many schools, like UCF, now have food pantries,” says Lynda, a retired educator. Second Harvest’s School Partnerships Program supports kindergarten through post-secondary school students, ensuring they have the nutritious food they need to … [Read more...] about Creating a Legacy of Hope
Mobile Food Distributions Deliver Meals and Hope Following Milton
In the wake of Hurricane Milton, communities across Central Florida came together to support families dealing with food insecurity, intensified by widespread power outages. As the community's emergency food provider, Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida, its network of feeding partners, dedicated volunteers and supporters stepped up to deliver food and hope. At a … [Read more...] about Mobile Food Distributions Deliver Meals and Hope Following Milton