For 40 years, WESH 2 News and the Central Florida community have come together to make the holidays brighter for neighbors facing hunger through the annual Share Your Christmas food and fund drive. What began as a simple act of kindness has grown into one of the area’s most cherished holiday traditions, uniting families, volunteers, and community partners to support local kids, families and seniors through Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida.
This year marks a milestone: four decades of generosity, compassion, and community impact.
WESH 2 anchor and Second Harvest Board Member, Michelle Imperato, shared what this anniversary means:
“It’s hard to put into words how special Share Your Christmas is to me. It’s always one of the highlights of my year, but this anniversary feels especially meaningful. It’s remarkable to think WESH 2 News has helped bring people together to feed our neighbors in need during the holidays for 40 years. As both a WESH 2 anchor and a proud board member of Second Harvest, I’ve seen firsthand the incredible impact this event has – not just in the meals provided, but in the hope it brings. Every donation, every volunteer, every moment of kindness can make a difference. To see our viewers, neighbors, and partners come together to support Second Harvest Food Bank – it’s a reminder of the power of community and kindness. I’m truly honored to carry on this beautiful tradition with a team and a community that cares so deeply.”
This year’s Share Your Christmas campaign offers more ways than ever to make a difference. Whether you’re giving your time, food, or funds, every act of generosity helps feed hope across Central Florida.
Here’s how you can join in:
Today – Start Your Share Your Christmas Food Drive
Rally your co-workers, neighbors, school, faith community, or civic group to collect nonperishable food donations. We’ve gathered resources on how to start a food and fund drive and a list of the most-needed items to set you up for success. Then, make a plan to drop off your collection at one of six locations on December 12.
December 2 – Giving Tuesday Telethon
Tune in and participate in WESH 2’s Share Your Christmas Giving Tuesday Telethon, hosted live from Second Harvest’s main Orlando distribution center from 6 a.m. – 7:30 p.m. Throughout the day you’ll see stories of impact made possible by your support and have the opportunity to make a financial gift online or by phone to help provide meals this holiday season.
December 7 – OUC Orlando Half Marathon Lake Eola 5k
New this year, register for the OUC Orlando Half Marathon and Lake Eola 5K, benefiting Share Your Christmas. This exciting addition is made possible through a new partnership between WESH 2 and Track Shack Events. Participants may make tax-deductible donations during registration and bring nonperishable food items to the pre-race expo at The Plaza Live on December 4 and 5.
December 10 – Share Your Christmas Special
WESH 2 will continue the anniversary celebration with a Share Your Christmas special airing Dec. 10 at 7 p.m. on WESH 2. The program will highlight the history of the event, the impact of community giving, stories – and a challenge to the community – from some of Second Harvest’s most dedicated supporters, and reflections from former WESH 2 anchors.
December 12 – Share Your Christmas Food Drive
The food and fund drive culminates on Dec. 12, when citizens across Central Florida are encouraged to donate nonperishable food items at six Share Your Christmas drop-off sites from 6 a.m.- 1 p.m. These efforts help ensure families continue to receive vital support during the holiday season.
- Brevard County: The Brevard Zoo, Viera
- Lake County: Lake County Sheriff’s Substation, Clermont
- Marion County: Frank DeLuca YMCA, Ocala
- Orange County: WESH 2 Studios, Winter Park
- Osceola County: Celebration Town Center, Celebration
- Volusia County: Daytona International Speedway, Daytona Beach
Food and fund drives are needed in our community now more than ever. Each $1 donated helps provide 4 meals for local neighbors facing hunger, a powerful reminder that even small actions can create big impact.
This 40th anniversary is more than a celebration; it’s evidence of what’s possible when a community comes together to care for one another. Join WESH 2 and Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida in making this year’s Share Your Christmas the most impactful one yet. Because together, we share more than meals, we share hope.
