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, and prepare nutritious food for distribution to children, families and seniors facing hunger.
“It was so meaningful to not only work alongside my colleagues but also share this experience with my two daughters,” said Adriana, reflecting on a recent volunteer experience with her co-workers from Siemens Healthineers Export Control and Custom Department. “It was a wonderful opportunity to show our children the importance of giving back and working together to help others.”
To find a volunteer opportunity, visit www.feedhopenow.org/volunteer.
Food Drives
Each fall, school groups, community organizations, businesses and individuals often rally to collect nonperishable food to share with neighbors experiencing hunger.
Food brings people together, especially during the holidays. It is a time to nourish traditions, celebrate and share meals with loved ones. The kindness of community food drives and food donors across Central Florida makes it possible for neighbors to put food on the table during the holiday season and beyond.
Feeding Partners
Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida’s network of 750 feeding partners helps distribute food and grocery products to neighbors in seven counties, including emergency food pantries, shelters, after-school programs and community centers. Their dedication and compassion are truly remarkable.
“Right now, the cost of food is really, really high,” says Maria Urdaneta, assistant pantry manager at Catholic Charities of Central Florida. “When the families come here asking for food, for something for their children, it’s very important to have places like this to support them.”
Across Brevard, Lake, Marion, Orange, Osceola, Seminole, and Volusia counties, feeding partners enable neighbors to access food when they need it most.
Virtual Food Drives
Financial donations make an incredible difference in the fight against hunger. Every dollar donated to Second Harvest Food Bank can provide four nutritious meals for neighbors facing hunger. In addition to one-time and monthly donations, virtual food drives raise critical funds by inviting friends, family, co-workers and others to participate.
“Giving online is so easy. And every contribution in any amount makes a difference. We like being a part of that,” says Elaine Pancake, Messiah Choral Society member and virtual food drive coordinator.
There’s still time to set up a Hope for the Holidays virtual food drive this season.
Advocates
Ending hunger in Central Florida is no small task. Thanks to the many advocates who share posts on social media, invite friends to volunteer, organize fundraising events and much, much more, Second Harvest can lean into the gap of unmet need.
Recently, Second Harvest’s Young Professionals Committee was recognized for its dedication to fighting hunger and engaging similar-minded young professionals dedicated to serving the community. This kind of commitment inspires others to get involved.
Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida is grateful to be part of such a caring community. Because of you, our neighbors facing hunger have access to nutritious meals – and hope – when they need it most.
Thank you!
