Contributed
Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida recently welcomed State Senator Jason Brodeur (R-District 10) for a tour of the Orlando distribution center.
During the recent visit, Sen. Brodeur got a behind-the-scenes look at how state investments support local hunger relief efforts, including the recent approved increase in funding for the Farmers Feeding Florida program. As a member of Feeding Florida, the state’s network of food banks, Second Harvest leaders highlighted key partnerships with more than 100 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 the organization’s infrastructure and partnership with the state to move disaster supplies following a hurricane.
“Seeing our work in action helps illustrate what’s possible when farmers, nonprofit organizations and state leaders work together to strengthen partnerships that help feed our neighbors,” said Derrick Chubbs, President and CEO at Second Harvest Food Bank. “Access to fresh, locally grown produce is critical to addressing immediate hunger while improving nutrition and supporting healthier communities for the long term.”
As Chair of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Committee, Sen. Brodeur said the increased investment in Farmers Feeding Florida reflects the legislature’s commitment to supporting both Florida’s agricultural producers and organizations working to expand access to nutritious food for families across the state.
“Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida is an important partner in ensuring state resources translate into real impact for Florida families,” said Sen. Brodeur. “Today’s visit reinforces how investments in Farmers Feeding Florida strengthen our food supply chain, reduce waste and expand access to nutritious food across our state.”
Added Robin Safley, CEO of Feeding Florida: “When Florida’s food banks work together as a statewide network, we can leverage our collective reach and partnerships to move more food to the communities that need it most. Farmers Feeding Florida demonstrates the power of that collaboration, connecting Florida’s agricultural producers with food banks, like Second Harvest, to turn locally grown food into meaningful support for families facing hunger.”
As the largest emergency food provider in Central Florida, Second Harvest distributes enough food to provide 300,000 meals a day.
For more information about how to support Second Harvest’s hunger relief efforts, or to find assistance, visit FeedHopeNow.org.
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