Central Florida – On Saturday, Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida concluded its second annual 24‑hour “Hunger Never Sleeps” marathon, a community‑wide effort that produced 111,137 meals for residents in need. The event, which began Friday morning, saw over 300 volunteers—neighbors, church groups, corporate teams and students—working around the clock to pack, sort and label each meal.
Volunteer effort fuels the marathon
Participants arrived early on Friday, forming assembly lines in the food bank’s warehouse. Shifts rotated continuously, ensuring that fresh energy and focus were maintained throughout the marathon. Volunteers reported a strong sense of purpose, noting that the fast‑paced environment reminded them that hunger does not pause for weekends or holidays.
Distribution network reaches across the region
According to Dan Samuels, senior director of philanthropy for Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida, the meals will be delivered through the organization’s extensive network of more than 800 community partners. “As soon as Monday, they will be going out to our community through mobile distributions, through feeding partners,” Samuels said. “Our neighbors will be able to go to a partner in their community, someplace local, and get the food assistance they need. All of that food coming from Second Harvest straight to those partners and straight to the community.”
How the public can continue to help
Second Harvest emphasizes that the marathon is only one part of a year‑long effort to combat food insecurity. The organization invites residents to stay involved by volunteering at future events, organizing virtual food drives, or making monetary donations. Samuels noted that every dollar contributed can provide roughly four meals, underscoring the tangible impact of even modest gifts.
Impact on Central Floridians
The 111,137 meals prepared during the marathon are slated to reach families, seniors, and individuals across Central Florida who face daily challenges securing enough food. Local churches, schools, senior centers and other nonprofits will receive the meals, helping to fill gaps that government assistance programs may not fully cover.
Looking ahead
Second Harvest plans to build on the momentum of this year’s marathon by expanding its volunteer base and strengthening partnerships with local businesses and faith‑based organizations. The food bank’s leadership hopes that the visibility of the event will inspire more community members to recognize the ongoing need for food assistance and to act in support of their neighbors.
For more information on how to get involved, donate, or start a virtual food drive, visit the Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida website.
Original reporting: WESH Orlando — read the source article.
