Coming Together to Feed More Hope

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.

Fighting Hunger to Honor Heritage  

During Hispanic Heritage Month, Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida elevates stories of collaboration, hope, love of food and the power of community.  The collective actions and voices of partners, volunteers and advocates connected to the food bank make a difference in serving neighbors facing hunger. 

Individual Actions Combine to Make Big Impact for Neighbors

Hunger Action Month brings awareness to the many ways individuals in Central Florida can take small actions that make a significant difference in the fight against hunger.

The community that supports Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida is full of people who find ways to fight hunger and feed hope throughout the year.

These are the stories of just a few of the people taking action to support the 1 in 7 Central Florida neighbors facing hunger.

Second Harvest Partners with Lake Sumter State College to Reduce Food Insecurity Among College Students 

The necessity of food for learning has no age limit.  

Students of all ages need nourishment and nutrition for their brains to perform their best and for their bodies to stay in optimal physical and mental health.  

Lake Sumter State College administrators wanted to remove food insecurity as a potential barrier to student success. Recently, the college opened Lakehawk Harvest in partnership with Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida’s School Partnerships program.   

“College is not just about academics, it’s about creating an environment where students feel supported and can be successful,” Dr. Laura Byrd, Interim President of LSSC, said at the opening ceremony. “This pantry is a tangible investment in our students’ wellbeing and success. By removing barriers like hunger, we are allowing students to focus more fully on their studies and their futures.”