This year marked the 39th iteration of WESH 2’s Share Christmas, a renowned food drive committed to assisting those in need across six counties. The event is taking place as a one-day drive aimed at gathering nonperishable food items for the Second Harvest Food Bank. With a focus on bringing joy and support during the holiday season, the initiative has garnered significant attention and participation from the community.
The day commenced at the Brevard Zoo in Viera, where WESH's Christina Watkins reported live. She fervently expressed her excitement about the event and the chance for the community to contribute. A cheerful crowd of volunteers eagerly awaited the public's donations, embodying the spirit of willingness and support central to the initiative.
Christina noted that the task at hand was monumental—helping to alleviate food insecurity in the region. Partnering with Second Harvest Food Bank, the goal is to collect as much nonperishable food as possible to feed families who are facing hardship.
Bill Collins from Second Harvest Food Bank took a moment to elaborate on the pressing issue of food insecurity within Brevard County. With an estimated 75,000 individuals in need, including 18,000 children, the statistics paint a troubling picture. This urgent need for food assistance underscores why this food drive is vital, especially during the holiday season when families may struggle more than usual.
The initiative offers a direct impact; volunteers were busy preparing family boxes designed to feed a family of four for a week. Each box is packed with approximately 35 pounds of shelf-stable items, ensuring that families have access to nutritious meals through these challenging times.
As the interview continued, the conversation shifted to the role of the community in addressing food insecurity. Bill emphasized the importance of contributions, particularly during this season of giving. He noted that children often face uncertainty about their next meal, a reality that makes community involvement all the more critical.
The message was clear: Central Florida has a unique opportunity to step up for its neighbors during this time of year. Bill's optimism about the community's participation was palpable, with hopes high for a successful turnout.
In recognition that not everyone may be able to travel to the zoo, Bill provided alternative options for showing support. He pointed out that for every dollar donated, four meals can be provided to those in need. This goes to show the power of collective efforts—even small contributions can make a substantial difference.
Donors can choose to give online through the website feedhopenow.org, providing a convenient avenue for support. Each donation contributes to filling the truck with much-needed items, and WESH urged viewers to bring donations or donate online.
As the day unfolded, Christina highlighted the types of items people could donate, including canned goods, cornbread, fruits, and other nonperishable items that can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those less fortunate.
WESH 2’s Share Christmas initiative stands not only as a testament to community resilience but also as a powerful reminder of the importance of generosity and support during the holiday season. Community members were encouraged to come out until 1:00 PM that day to lend a helping hand, affirming that, together, Central Florida could indeed make a significant impact in the lives of many families this Christmas.
Part 1/6:
WESH 2's 39th Annual Share Christmas Food Drive
This year marked the 39th iteration of WESH 2’s Share Christmas, a renowned food drive committed to assisting those in need across six counties. The event is taking place as a one-day drive aimed at gathering nonperishable food items for the Second Harvest Food Bank. With a focus on bringing joy and support during the holiday season, the initiative has garnered significant attention and participation from the community.
Live from Brevard Zoo
Part 2/6:
The day commenced at the Brevard Zoo in Viera, where WESH's Christina Watkins reported live. She fervently expressed her excitement about the event and the chance for the community to contribute. A cheerful crowd of volunteers eagerly awaited the public's donations, embodying the spirit of willingness and support central to the initiative.
Christina noted that the task at hand was monumental—helping to alleviate food insecurity in the region. Partnering with Second Harvest Food Bank, the goal is to collect as much nonperishable food as possible to feed families who are facing hardship.
Understanding the Need
Part 3/6:
Bill Collins from Second Harvest Food Bank took a moment to elaborate on the pressing issue of food insecurity within Brevard County. With an estimated 75,000 individuals in need, including 18,000 children, the statistics paint a troubling picture. This urgent need for food assistance underscores why this food drive is vital, especially during the holiday season when families may struggle more than usual.
The initiative offers a direct impact; volunteers were busy preparing family boxes designed to feed a family of four for a week. Each box is packed with approximately 35 pounds of shelf-stable items, ensuring that families have access to nutritious meals through these challenging times.
The Importance of Community Support
Part 4/6:
As the interview continued, the conversation shifted to the role of the community in addressing food insecurity. Bill emphasized the importance of contributions, particularly during this season of giving. He noted that children often face uncertainty about their next meal, a reality that makes community involvement all the more critical.
The message was clear: Central Florida has a unique opportunity to step up for its neighbors during this time of year. Bill's optimism about the community's participation was palpable, with hopes high for a successful turnout.
How to Contribute
Part 5/6:
In recognition that not everyone may be able to travel to the zoo, Bill provided alternative options for showing support. He pointed out that for every dollar donated, four meals can be provided to those in need. This goes to show the power of collective efforts—even small contributions can make a substantial difference.
Donors can choose to give online through the website feedhopenow.org, providing a convenient avenue for support. Each donation contributes to filling the truck with much-needed items, and WESH urged viewers to bring donations or donate online.
A Call to Action
Part 6/6:
As the day unfolded, Christina highlighted the types of items people could donate, including canned goods, cornbread, fruits, and other nonperishable items that can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those less fortunate.
WESH 2’s Share Christmas initiative stands not only as a testament to community resilience but also as a powerful reminder of the importance of generosity and support during the holiday season. Community members were encouraged to come out until 1:00 PM that day to lend a helping hand, affirming that, together, Central Florida could indeed make a significant impact in the lives of many families this Christmas.