"A year ago, I was doing well," recalls Rose as she selects fresh vegetables from a food distribution in Kissimmee. Rose, a dedicated healthcare worker, works six days a week at two jobs. However, despite her hard work, it is not enough to keep up with the inflated cost of living and outstanding medical debt. "Just like that," she says and snaps her fingers, "Debts accrue, … [Read more...] about Striving Forward, One Meal at a Time
Programs You Support
Blessings Beyond the Box
Along a busy state road in the middle of Orlando sits a place of hope, a respite for neighbors facing uncertainty. "This is a ministry that is changing lives," says Juan Vega, director of food ministries at Catholic Charities of Central Florida. Juan's belief in the transformative power of the ministry is palpable. For him, it is about more than providing food; it is … [Read more...] about Blessings Beyond the Box
Students Explore Plant-Based Cuisine
A fresh style of cuisine has entered Second Harvest’s Culinary Training Program. Joining classics like Italian, Mexican, Mediterranean and Middle Eastern, plant-based cuisine is now part of the 16-week curriculum. Introducing students to this cooking style will prepare them better for real-world scenarios. “It is definitely in the mainstream of the culinary industry,” Keonna … [Read more...] about Students Explore Plant-Based Cuisine
Together We Make a Difference
Before the sun rises, cars line up behind orange cones for food assistance. This was a common sight during the pandemic, and it continues to persist at a food distribution hosted by Advance Community Center, one of Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida’s 750 feeding partners. “You are not going to get up at 2 o’clock in the morning to wait for food if you don’t … [Read more...] about Together We Make a Difference
Beyond the Table: Social Determinants of Health
March is National Nutrition Month, a time to focus on how what you eat affects your health. There’s more to consider about your health than simply eating better and exercising. According to the County Health Rankings Model of Health, our personal health choices only account for about 30% of our overall health. Your health is significantly influenced by factors beyond your … [Read more...] about Beyond the Table: Social Determinants of Health