When you think of a food bank or food pantry, cans and boxes of food often come to mind. While these nonperishable food items are an essential resource for kids, families and seniors facing hunger, Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida also emphasizes the importance of distributing fresh, healthy foods, like fruits, vegetables, meat and bread.
Second Harvest recognizes that it has a vital role in the health and wellness of the Central Florida community. By collaborating with the feeding partner network of 625 food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters, community centers and childhood hunger programs, Second Harvest seeks to build capacity to distribute an increasing amount of more nutritious foods.
Watch how The Picnic Project in Sanford displays and distributes fresh produce into the community.
Volunteers at the pantry start with a bag of frozen meats and nonperishable food items. Then, each neighbor gets to choose which fresh produce they want to add to the bag and take home. Inventory varies from week to week.
“One of our priorities is community health and really providing a lot of nutrient-dense foods,” says Mark. “We found out that people were super receptive. Everybody loves the produce!”
A recent selection included butternut squash, acorn squash, onions and bananas.
“They introduce me to a lot of fruits and vegetables that I normally would not eat,” says Patricia, a senior who picks up food every Friday. Mark offers preparation tips and recipes for new or unfamiliar items.
“Growing up, we didn’t have access to these kinds of things,” explains Patricia. “Now, to have access to them blows my mind.”
Kids, families and seniors can live healthier lives by increasing access to nutritious foods. “I rely on it,” says Patricia, “And I know a lot of other people in the community does as well.”
Your support makes a difference.
$10 provides 40 meals.
