Contributed by Second Harvest Food Bank
Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida recently welcomed Lieutenant Governor Jay Collins for a tour of the Orlando distribution center.
During the recent visit, Florida’s second highest-ranking officer saw how state funding is vital to supporting local hunger relief efforts. Second Harvest leaders highlighted key partnerships with more than a hundred Florida farmers, ranchers and producers that redirect surplus commodities, such as fruit, vegetables, beef, seafood, dairy and eggs, to families at risk of experiencing hunger. They also discussed Second Harvest’s infrastructure and partnership with the state to move disaster supplies following a hurricane.
“We were honored to host Lt. Governor Collins today and show how our team works every day to ensure that Central Floridians have access to the healthy food they need to thrive,” said Derrick Chubbs, President and CEO at Second Harvest. “Visits like this help bring our mission to life and strengthen partnerships that make a real difference in the lives of children, seniors and families across our community.”
Second Harvest and Lt. Governor Collins shared a vision for addressing root causes of hunger, from nutrition education to workforce development and creating economic mobility. The food bank’s Culinary Training Program demonstrates the transformative power of public, private and nonprofit partners working to create a resilient, skilled workforce.
“Visiting Second Harvest and seeing their operation in action reinforced the notion that when we work together, from the state level down to individual communities, we can find solutions to complex issues facing our neighbors,” said Lieutenant Governor Jay Collins. “Whether it is supporting agriculture, addressing individual health and nutrition, or investing in a strong workforce, it is all about equipping Floridians to thrive.”
As the largest emergency food provider in Central Florida, Second Harvest distributes enough food to provide 330,000 meals a day.
For more information about how to support Second Harvest’s hunger relief efforts, or to find assistance, visit FeedHopeNow.org.
