Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida is intentionally increasing the output of fresh, healthy food into our community. Thanks to farmers, growers, retail partners and food suppliers, more than 52% of the food distributed last year was fresh! This means more fruits, vegetables, dairy and meats found their way onto the plates of kids, seniors and families in Central Florida.
One way to keep this momentum moving in the right direction is to build capacity at local feeding partners. When food pantries and programs have the right equipment to safely store perishable food, more of our neighbors can enjoy fresh produce, milk, and meat.
Manna Medical recently donated 10 coolers and refrigerators to Second Harvest to share with local pantries, like Shepherd Vision Ministry in Parramore. This weekly feeding program began several years ago when Yolaine Phillip had a vision to lift up her neighborhood. “I saw so much need around the stadium,” she recalls. “I would take people food and try to connect my neighbors with different organizations.”
Last year, the organization lost its only refrigerator when they relocated to a new building. They used to include produce in their weekly distribution, like apples, potatoes and other items. Now they can only distribute basic pantry items. When Yolaine received a call that a refrigerator was available, she came the same day to pick it up.
“This is a blessing to so many people,” Yolaine said. “Thank you, very much.”
It may be one small change, but over time, these donated refrigerators will cause a ripple effect throughout the community. With each bag of produce or gallon of milk, a family in need will be fed and nourished, thanks to you.
If you are an agency who could increase your capacity by serving more fruits, vegetables and meats with the help of a cold storage unit please send your requests to fdelgado@feedhopenow.org