Lending a hand to others often brings unexpected assistance your way. “I used to volunteer at a food bank in New Jersey. And now it comes around to me,” says Maria, a senior who works part-time. Without full-time hours, she’s unable to keep up with the rising costs, including food. Maria’s story is all too familiar as one in 8 Central Floridians face hunger due to rising … [Read more...] about A Helping Hand for Maria
Programs You Support
Launching New Careers: 13 Students Graduate from Culinary Training Program
On Saturday, June 8, Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida recognized 13 Culinary Training Program students during a graduation ceremony. Food bank staff, family, friends and employers joined in the celebration to acknowledge the significant accomplishments of each student. In addition to learning hands-on food preparation and gaining kitchen training similar to the … [Read more...] about Launching New Careers: 13 Students Graduate from Culinary Training Program
Transforming Lives: Dezmond’s Story
Dezmond could not resist the allure of culinary arts. "Cooking allows me to be creative, and I love whipping up dishes for others," says Dezmond. His passion for cooking soared during the pandemic when he spent days devising ramen dishes at home. After high school, Dezmond learned about Second Harvest's 16-week Culinary Training Program and enrolled to shape his love for … [Read more...] about Transforming Lives: Dezmond’s Story
The Emergency Food Assistance Program Provides Stability for Central Florida Families
The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) is a lifeline for local families facing hunger. This federal initiative supplements the diets of low-income individuals and families with fresh and nonperishable food, all sourced from American farms and funded through the U.S. Farm Bill. Food banks like Second Harvest play a crucial role in receiving, storing, and distributing … [Read more...] about The Emergency Food Assistance Program Provides Stability for Central Florida Families
3 ways to fight hunger this summer
As schools and cafeterias close for the summer, many children and families, who rely on school-provided meals for critical nutrition, are left facing the unfathomable: a summer of worry and hunger. The inflated cost of essentials coupled with the absence of essential school meals during summer break adds to the stress and tough decisions that parents face, such as choosing … [Read more...] about 3 ways to fight hunger this summer
