People from all backgrounds and walks of life fill different roles in the fight against hunger at Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida. But everyone has one thing in common, the goal of supporting neighbors facing food insecurity.
Whether a volunteer or a feeding partner, every person at the food bank is there to put meals on tables for their neighbors.
In observance of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Second Harvest wants to elevate the voices and stories of two Asian Americans who fight hunger in different ways but with the same dedication to their communities.
Both have known what food insecurity feels like and have chosen different ways to ensure others have food and hope.
Anthony has Empathy for His Neighbors
Anthony knows what it’s like to live in a home where his family couldn’t always afford the basics like food, and he wants to make sure others know where their next meal is coming from.
“My family used to be in poverty, and my parents are trying their best to build a brighter future for (our family),” he said.
Fighting hunger is important to Anthony because he wants to help his neighbors facing food insecurity get through challenging times and move toward stability.
He’s only 16, and his way of supporting children and families facing hunger is to volunteer at Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida. He has given nearly 250 hours of his time sorting and packing food.
“I like to believe I am the cause of someone's next meal,” Anthony said.
He first volunteered with his family when he was in middle school but has recently become a frequent volunteer.
“I saw how important this work was for people and the impact I had on fighting hunger overall,” Anthony said as to why he decided to volunteer so often.
Anthony’s mother inspires him to give back to his community.
“Her hard work to sustain her children and her kindness despite not always receiving the same treatment back has been a great example for me,” Anthony said.
While Anthony knows each meal makes a difference for someone, he also understands that fighting hunger takes everyone in the community. He encourages others to volunteer because everyone’s efforts add up. “Fighting is hunger is a collective effort done as a team,” he said.
Hannah Serves her Community with Compassion
Hannah understands the importance of emergency food pantries to neighbors facing hunger because she has been on the receiving end before.
“I used to visit different food pantries to get food for my family,” she recalled. “Because of that experience, I understand how important it is to provide food to families.”
Now as the Secretary for the food pantry at Good News Orlando Church, she gets to help make sure local children, families and seniors have the food they need.
“When we had the opportunity to become a (Second Harvest feeding partner), I was truly happy and grateful to serve the community,” Hannah said. “There are many individuals and families who are struggling with hunger, so it is very important for us to help them.”
In her role, Hannah picks up the food from Second Harvest and organizes the weekly distributions. She is supported by a team of volunteers.
“I am very thankful for our volunteers who support this work so that we can continue serving our community,” she said. “I am inspired by many people who serve their communities with compassion.”
Supporting neighbors facing hunger is a meaningful way to invest your time into your community, Hannah believes.
“It makes a real impact on the lives of people around us,” she said. “If you have the opportunity, I strongly encourage you to join in and help fight hunger together.”
