Food drive helps feed Orange County families over winter break

Several groups helped distribute food

ORLANDO, Fla. – Dozens of volunteers came together Friday to distribute 500 holiday meals to support families during the winter break.

The holiday food drive was organized by Orange County District 3 Commissioner Mayra Uribe who partnered with Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida.

“It kind of came to me because I’ve noticed there’s so many Thanksgiving food drives, but nobody thinks about Christmas,” Uribe said. “I want to at least offer this opportunity and that’s what we’re trying today.”

Several organizations took part in the distribution, including the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, Florida Blue, Zaxby’s, St. John Vianney, and All-Star Dads.

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“I hope it’s a little bit of relief. That’s what my goal is and if it’s not, you can do something else instead of having to worry about this,” Uribe said.

The meals included fresh produce and pantry staples and were limited to a first-come first-serve basis.

Glori Canot is a single mother of three and said the food she received Friday will help ease the holiday stress.

“It’s been a tough year working less hours, so it’s a blessing,” Canot said. “Just a little bit less spending on food and money for Christmas.”

Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida holds several food distribution events each month. To find out how to get help, or how to help out, head to the Second Harvest website.

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About the Author

Mark Lehman became a News 6 reporter in July 2014, but he's been a Central Florida journalist and part of the News 6 team for much longer. While most people are fast asleep in their bed, Mark starts his day overnight by searching for news on the streets of Central Florida.

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