Goodwill Industries of Central Florida has announced that all proceeds from its November “round up at the register” initiative will be donated to Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida, strengthening local hunger-relief efforts as many residents face ongoing uncertainty surrounding SNAP benefits.
Second Harvest Food Bank plays a critical role in supplying groceries and meals to individuals and families experiencing food insecurity throughout the region. With many households feeling increased financial pressure this season, Goodwill Industries of Central Florida is expanding its support to help ensure more residents have reliable access to food.
Throughout November, shoppers across Goodwill locations in Orange, Osceola, Seminole, Brevard, Volusia, and Lake counties will have the opportunity to round up their purchases to the nearest dollar. All funds collected will go directly toward Second Harvest’s mission to purchase and distribute meals to families in need. In addition, Goodwill will match community donations up to $10,000, amplifying the campaign’s overall impact.
“For every dollar donated at the register, you’re giving a family four meals to put on their table,” Dr. Bahíyyah Maroon, Goodwill’s Vice President of Mission Impact said in a press release. “With support from our shoppers, we can join Second Harvest in its mission to minimize hunger and food anxieties in our community even as so many in our area face the uncertainty after losing SNAP benefits at the start of November.”
According to statewide data, nearly 3 million Floridians rely on SNAP benefits, including close to 500,000 residents in Central Florida alone. Sudden disruptions in these benefits can significantly strain local food banks and charitable organizations.
“SNAP provides nine meals for every one that food banks like Second Harvest can offer,” Derrick Chubbs, President and CEO said. “When that support is interrupted, it takes all of us working together to fill the gap. We’re grateful to Goodwill and their customers for stepping up to help us bridge the meal gap and make sure our neighbors have the food they need.”
Community members who wish to participate in the round-up campaign can visit any Goodwill Industries of Central Florida retail location through the end of November.
For more information about Goodwill stores in your area, visit GoodwillCFL.org.