When we all work together, we can accomplish even more.
Individuals and organizations showed an outpouring of support and action to Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida during Hunger Action Month this September, including an incredibly impactful contribution from Winn-Dixie.
Winn-Dixie, in celebration of its 100th anniversary and in support of Hunger Action Month, made a significant contribution. The grocer's donation of a semi-truck full of food and the volunteer efforts of 20 employees were instrumental in sorting, packing, and distributing food to over 2,225 neighbors in 700 households on Sept. 11 at Patmos Chapel in Apopka.
Neighbors received fresh produce, canned goods, non-perishable foods and more from the Winn-Dixie crew. They also received additional items, including meat and bakery products, from a Second Harvest truckload that volunteers from the church put into cars.
Orlando resident Gloria had a lot on her plate when she arrived in line early in the morning before the food distribution at Patmos Chapel. It was her first time there after she needed help with food.
Gloria recently recovered from kidney surgery and can gradually start working longer hours. However, her SNAP benefits were reduced after she mistakenly didn't submit documentation, leaving her without enough income to cover her bills and food this month.
“All of the items at the grocery store have gone up,” Gloria said. “This helps me with my meat, my vegetables. It's really rewarding to be able to come to a place and get help with food. It saves a lot. Anything I don't have to buy at the store, I can put it toward some bills.”
Like so many families across Central Florida, Gloria makes tough decisions about whether to pay a bill or put food on the table at home.
“I just want to thank all of them (the church, Winn Dixie and the food bank) for what they're doing,” she said. “It's got to really help families.”
