One veteran offers a helping hand

“What I learned from my experience in the military is that I really want to help people,” explains Bibi. She spent 11 years in the Army, serving in Iraq and on the ground in New York City following the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

“Looking back, I can’t believe I did some of that,” Bibi says upon reflecting on the many months of search and rescue efforts, security and funerals she attended as a member of the honor guard.

After completing her service, Bibi pursued her passion for helping others as a social worker.

“Many of our neighbors don’t have the education, transportation or even food they need,” says Bibi.

Serving others through food

Jeremy’s life is defined by service.
“Volunteering is my greatest joy,” explains Jeremy. “I like serving my fellow man, especially veterans because I am a disabled veteran.”

Aetna Stocks 65 School Pantries for 2023-2024 Academic Year

Today, Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida announced the expansion of its School Partnerships Program through a $115,150 grant provided by Aetna, a CVS health company.

The funding will help elementary, middle, high school and post-secondary institutions stock their markets and emergency pantries with nonperishable food items throughout the 2023-2024 academic year. Currently, 65 schools across Brevard, Lake, Orange, Osceola, Seminole and Volusia counties participate in Second Harvest’s program, which is designed to give students and families access to the nutrition they need after school and on weekends.

Moms Make Tough Decisions to Feed Their Families

Every day, mothers make hundreds, if not thousands, of decisions for themselves and their families. As a mother of a toddler and infant twins, Ferayda knows this all too well. She juggles feeding schedules, nap times, the never-ending laundry, and the family budget.

“We have to designate a lot of money from our budget for food, especially milk and formula,” explains Ferayda. “We spend a lot of money just to buy a few things.”