We wanted to share a little bit about a dear Food Bank friend of ours who sadly passed away recently.
When we think of a person who works with and helps the senior population in Central Florida, we instantly would think of Walt Willis. Our seniors are one of the most vulnerable and growing populations in our country, and Walt was a man who devoted most of his life to helping them.
Throughout the years, Walt has been recognized for his service with seniors, including Volunteer of the Year with the City of Orlando and Every Day Heroes on Channel 13. At Second Harvest Food Bank we could always count on Walt to join any committee, council or subgroup that we had. Walt’s devotion to senior hunger was beyond commendable.
At Senior and Life Solution, Walt and his “food angels” would go to different seniors’ homes and deliver free, non-perishable groceries to 700 families (1,100 people) each month. Walt partnered with approximately 100 families in senior high rises and senior recreation centers, a group of doctors deemed in dire need of food or risk hospitalization, to distribute up to 4,000 pounds of fresh fruits and vegetables.
Senior and Life Solutions Mission statement stated “… help seniors anywhere we can, except medically, have a better tomorrow than today,” This really showed how Walt and his team of volunteers were a welcome respite for the seniors they visited.
Whether Walt was at the food bank, or out and about, he would always end the conversation or visit with his signature send-off. “Do me a favor… Have a Super Day”. Thank you Walt, for everything you did in our community to bring joy, kindness, and love to everyone you met. You will be missed.
Erin Gray
Agency Relations Manager