Patty and Judie are two compassionate women on a mission to fight hunger and spark change in Central Florida. One facilitates retail store donations at an Orlando area Walmart Supercenter. The other manages how those food donations are received, sorted and distributed into the community. Together, they are a dynamic duo making a difference in the fight against hunger.
Watch how their story unfolds.
On one side of the counter is Patty, who takes her role seriously. As a Walmart associate, she ensures that donations to Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida meet quality standards.
“Everyone counts,” says Patty, as she prepares donations to be picked up by a driver. “It’s to help out the community, making sure we’re helping people in need, providing food for those who can’t afford it.”
Retail donations include perishable products like fruits, vegetables, meats, and bakery items. Stores also donate shelf-stable, canned goods and other grocery products that would have gone to waste if not for a fleet of drivers and box trucks that pick up donations two or three days a week at hundreds of local stores.
Patty’s work is more than just a job—it’s a source of fulfillment and empathy. “I’ve been there. I know the struggle,” she confides. “It makes me feel good to help out, to know I’m making a difference. I wish I could do more,” she admits wistfully. “But I find solace in knowing that every contribution counts.”
Meanwhile, Judie is on the other side of the counter. Through Second Harvest’s Grocery Alliance Program, Judie bridges the gap between retailers like Walmart and Sam’s Club and neighbors experiencing hunger. She ensures donations are picked up, sorted by volunteers, and boxed for distribution to the community. But for Judie, it’s about more than logistics—it’s about making a difference, one meal at a time.
“I’ve been on both sides of the counter,” she confides, her voice tinged with empathy. “I know the difference it makes.”
Judie’s story becomes intertwined with her work – with chapters about resilience when her family lost their home and turned to a local food pantry for help, as well as others about compassion and giving back.
“These donations are going to go on someone’s table tonight,” Judie emphasizes. “They’re going to bring a family together, take the stress off, and give them a meal.”
Through their work, Patty and Judie see hope blooming amidst a sea of challenges. Hope that comes through food donations, volunteerism, community support through the Fight Hunger. Spark Change. campaign and other acts of kindness.
“Help others, be a part of it,” Judie encourages, her spirit undaunted. “Just be a part of fighting hunger and sparking that change.”
