Orlando joined the national 9/11 Day meal‑packing effort for the first time, rallying 600 volunteers from 40 local businesses to assemble 210,000 meals for people facing hardship. The event, held on September 11, 2026, reflects the community’s commitment to service and remembrance.
Why 9/11 Day matters
9/11 Day was founded in 2002 by David Paine and Jay Winuk to honor the sacrifice of those who responded to the September 11 attacks. Winuk’s younger brother perished in the World Trade Center, and his story drives the organization’s mission. “Jay’s younger brother was actually in the tower when it collapsed, and his body was later found with a medic bag and gloves, so he died in service to others,” said Brianna Mayhew of 9/11 Day.
Orlando’s first‑time participation
Partnering with the Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida, Orlando volunteers worked side‑by‑side to pack meals that will be distributed to families and individuals in need across the region. Erika Spence of Second Harvest explained the local impact of the 9/11 attacks: “That impacted Central Florida’s tourism, so the convention center emptied out, the hotel rooms booked got canceled, and so without people here visiting Orlando, the workers who depend on tourism for their paychecks were without, and Second Harvest responded to that.”
Scale of the effort
Last year, 9/11 Day operated in 25 cities; this year the organization expanded to 50, doubling its reach. Mayhew noted, “We wanted to double our impact and really make an impact across the country, and Orlando is an incredible hub.” The 210,000 meals prepared in Orlando represent a significant contribution to the national total and demonstrate the power of local collaboration.
Community response
Volunteers described the experience as both humbling and energizing. Many cited personal connections to the tragedy or a desire to give back to a city that thrives on tourism and hospitality. The event also highlighted the ongoing role of nonprofit partners like Second Harvest, which has long served Central Florida’s vulnerable populations.
Looking ahead
As Americans reflect on the unity and resilience shown after September 11, Orlando’s volunteers join a nationwide movement to turn remembrance into tangible aid. The meals packed will travel to food‑insecure households, reinforcing the message that service and compassion remain central to the community’s identity.
Original reporting: WESH Orlando — read the source article.
