Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida is known for fighting hunger and feeding hope. But hope is more than a noun or a feeling. It is also a verb. Hope in verb form is more than wishing things will get better, it is an intentional choice to work towards a brighter future for Central Florida neighbors.
Most of us have a reason why we are part of the fight against hunger: because food costs continue to rise, because children need healthy food to thrive, because seniors should not have to choose between food and medicine.
Here are six ways to turn your why into an act of hope.
Volunteer
Volunteer opportunities offer fun and unique ways for individuals and groups to contribute their time, talents and resources in the fight against hunger. Volunteer shifts are available at the main Orlando Distribution Center, Mercy Kitchen in Orlando and the Brevard Branch in Melbourne. Tasks include donation sorting, meal packing and more!
Host a food and fund drive
Food and fund drives are prolific during the fall holiday season. Restocking pantry shelves in the winter and spring months is just as important as helping families and seniors enjoy a big, holiday meal. Physical and virtual food drives provide solutions for neighborhoods, workplaces, scout troops, school groups and faith communities to come together and make a difference. Check out the food and fund dive FAQ to learn more.
Attend an event
Every month there are new and unique events designed to gather in community to fight hunger. The online event calendar lists happenings that encourage attendees to shop or dine for a cause and annual events like Ultimate Garden Party and Taste! Central Florida. There is always something happening in Central Florida where you can meet like-minded people looking to support neighbors facing hunger.
Take a tour
Food for Thought Tours are offered twice each month at the main Orlando distribution center. During a one-hour information session, you will learn about who is experiencing hunger in Central Florida, take a behind-the-scenes tour of food bank operations and see the impact of your generosity firsthand.
Advocate
Raising awareness of hunger relief efforts can be as simple as proudly wearing a Second Harvest t-shirt out in the community or talking about your volunteer experience with friends and family or sharing the impact of hunger relief efforts on social media.
Show your support
When the Magic scores, so does our community. You can show your support for Second Harvest Food Bank in Suncoast Credit Union’s Magic Bucket for the Community throughout January. Every time the Magic score a point, Suncoast contributes money to a donation bucket to be divided between two local nonprofits each month based on YOUR votes. Head over to www.Suncoast.com/MagicBuckets to help your neighbors facing hunger score big!
No matter how you choose to fight hunger this year, every action creates a ripple of hope across the community.
