Know what is really awesome about Central Florida? People step up to help in times of crisis – and here’s just one more example of that. The Central Florida community raised $278,879 for Second Harvest Food Bank through Walmart and Sam’s Club’s “Fight Hunger. Spark Change.” campaign, enough to provide more than 1 million meals locally.
“The fight against hunger has never been more important than now,” said Dave Krepcho, president and CEO of Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida. “This generous donation will provide 1.1 million meals to Central Floridians, many of whom have lost their livelihoods as a direct result of the economic shutdown caused by COVID-19.”
Since March 23, Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida has been providing enough food for 300,000 meals a day, double its daily distribution pre-pandemic. This donation will help the food bank continue operating at an elevated level.
Now in its seventh year, the “Fight Hunger. Spark Change.” campaign matches each Walmart and Sam’s Club nationwide with at least one of the 200 local Feeding America® member food banks to engage customers and members, along with suppliers and associates to support local food banks.
“This year’s campaign is especially critical given the great need our communities are facing,” said Maria Zazycki, senior manager of the Walmart Foundation. “We are incredibly proud of the way our customers, members, suppliers and associates stepped up to support local Feeding America member food banks that are working so hard.”
Nearly $18 million was raised this year through “Fight Hunger. Spark Change.” Walmart kickstarted the campaign with a $3 million donation to Feeding America and member food banks. The Walmart Foundation donated another $5 million to Feeding America to help support communities and individuals facing hunger during the COVID-19 outbreak.
To learn more and join the fight to end hunger in Central Florida, visit the Feed Hope Now page.
