Florida Food Force is a nonprofit initiative aimed at addressing food insecurities in Florida. It is a part of a broader effort to alleviate hunger and ensure that all residents in their area have access to nutritious food.
Key efforts of Florida Food Force include:
Food Distribution and Access: This initiative works to improve access to food for underserved communities by establishing food banks, emergency food distribution, and a weekly supplement food program that doesn’t have any income restrictions or county restrictions.
Collaboration with Local Partners: By teaming up with various organizations, businesses, and government agencies, Florida Food Force creates a more efficient system to provide these programs to a wider audience. These collaborations help to provide sustainable, long-term solutions to food insecurity.
Emergency Response: In times of crisis – such as natural disasters or economic downturns – Florida Food Force can quickly provide immediate food assistance to affected areas. The ability to respond quickly is especially crucial in a state like Florida, which frequently faces hurricanes and other natural disasters.
Community Education and Advocacy: The initiative also focuses on educating communities about nutrition, health eating, and available assistance programs. By raising awareness about food insecurity, Florida Food Force aims to provide immediate relief and create lasting change through public awareness campaigns.
Through these efforts, Florida Food Force plays a critical role in fighting hunger, improving public health, and building stronger, more resilient communities in west Florida.
As of recent data, food insecurity remains a significant issue, with millions of residents facing challenges in accessing enough nutritious food. Below are some 2024 statistics regarding food insecurity in Florida:
. 2.3 million Florida residents have food insecure households.
. Children are particularly vulnerable to food insecurity. In Florida, 1 in 6 children (about 800,000 children) are food insecure, which can have long term effects on their health, education, and development.
. 22 out of 67 counties in Florida have a food insecurity rate that exceeds the national average of 15%.
. 10.5% of Tampa Bay residents face food insecurity.
. 71% of lower income families of K-12 public school students in Florda reported signs of food insecurity in the past twelve months.
. 92% of rural Floridians say that affording groceries has become harder in the last twelve months and 72% of Floridians report that they find it more difficult to afford groceries compared to just a year ago. This isn’t
surprising when you consider that the cost of groceries has increased 25.8% since November 2020. Specifically, the same basket of groceries that cost you $100 at the end of 2020 now costs you $125.80.
Florida Food Force’s two most popular programs are the Emergency Food Box, and the Weekly Supplemental Food Program.
“One of the greatest feelings in the world is knowing that we as individuals can make a difference. Ending hunger in America is a goal that is literally within our grasp.”
~ Jeff Bridges
If you find yourself needing or know of someone who needs an emergency food box, please contact Florida Food Force. There are no income restrictions, and you do not need to reside near the food bank to benefit from the programs. Emergency food boxes are available Monday- Wednesday, 9:00 am to 2:30 pm by appointment. You can make an appointment by calling 727-261-7422. Please bring a photo ID. While you are there, ask about our Weekly Supplemental Food Program. Florida Food Force is located at 11523 Prosperous Drive, Odessa, FL 33556.
NEED FOOD ASSISTANCE?
WE CAN HELP!
CALL 727-261-7422
www.FloridaFoodForce.org
11523 Prosperous Drive, Odessa, FL 33556