Jim and Lynda Swenk only recall experiencing food insecurity when they lived independently and attended college.
“We are so grateful that many schools, like UCF, now have food pantries,” says Lynda, a retired educator. Second Harvest’s School Partnerships Program supports kindergarten through post-secondary school students, ensuring they have the nutritious food they need to learn, grow and thrive.
“We chose to provide food as our primary charitable target as water and food together are the most basic needs, followed by clothing and shelter,” explains Jim, who retired after a career in law enforcement, adding how their faith also inspires him and Lynda to feed their neighbors.
For 26 years, the Swenks have been unwavering in their financial support for Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida and local hunger relief efforts. As dedicated members of the Feeding Hope Society, Jim and Lynda are changing the lives of their neighbors facing hunger with their generous support.
“We’ve found that Second Harvest reaches a variety of groups, from people experiencing homelessness to school children who would miss meals in the summer without resources and programs from the food bank,” adds Lynda.
In addition to one-time and monthly giving options, donors can tailor their charitable gifts to support financial, tax, or estate planning goals. The Swenks opted to use an IRA Qualified Charitable Distribution to support hunger relief efforts while reducing taxable income.
“We are fortunate enough not to have to depend on our savings for living expenses as we both have pensions from our working days,” says Lynda. “Giving through our IRAs has a kickback for us as we would pay taxes on the amount we are obliged to withdraw.”
“You have every advantage in giving from your IRA if you can afford to part with all or some of your required minimum distribution,” adds Jim.
Discover how you can make a lasting impact on hunger relief efforts through planned giving options at shftgift.org. Your support can provide food and hope for kids, families and seniors in Central Florida.
