foodbank

Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Mon, 16 Mar 2026 15:02:23 GMT

Hunger in Palm Beach County

Millions of Americans live in challenging situations, uncertain of where their next meal will come from or if it will come at all. They are our customers, our neighbors, our families. They include children and seniors that we see along our routes each day. Sadly, 1 in 9 households don't have enough food and due to the pandemic it has become worse.

With over 30 years of letter carriers' commitment to the national food drive and over 1.9 billion pounds of food collected, our communities are still in need across the country. Ending hunger is a challenge letter carriers' and their communities have taken on.

Food Insecurity

The USDA defines food insecurity as a lack of consistent access to enough food for every person in a household to live an active, healthy life.

1 in 6 children will go to bed hungry tonight.

1 in 8 people struggle to put food on the table.

History of the Letter Carrier Stamp Out Hunger ® Food Drive

Letter carriers, who go into neighborhoods in every town six days a week, have always gotten involved

when something needs to be done. Whether it is collecting funds for the Muscular Dystrophy

Association (MDA); watching over the elderly through the Carrier Alert Program; delivering needed

antibiotics (if called upon); assisting victims of natural disasters, or rescuing victims of fires, crime, and

other mishaps, letter carriers are the eyes and ears in every neighborhood and often life savers in the

community.

Over history, a number of branches collected food for those in need as part of their community service

effort. Discussions were held by the NALC, USPS, and AFL-CIO to explore a more coordinated effort. A

pilot drive was held in October 1991. It proved so successful, the parties worked to make it a nationwide

effort. Food banks and pantries suggested that late spring would be the best time for the drive, since

most of their food donations are received over the Thanksgiving and Christmas holiday periods, leaving

the food shelves depleted by spring. Making matters even worse for many, school breakfast and lunch

programs are not available during the summer, placing an even greater responsibility on local food

pantries and food shelves.

A revamped drive was organized for the second Saturday in May 1993, with a goal of at least one NALC

local branch participating in each of the 50 states. The results were astounding. Over 11 million pounds of

food were collected by over 220 union branches - a one day record in the United States. From Alaska

to Florida and Maine to Hawaii, letter carriers did double duty by delivering the mail and picking up

donations. In 2022, we celebrated the return of the in-person food drive which was our 30th annual

Letter Carriers' Stamp Out Hunger® food drive. Our branches have collected a total of approximately 1.9

billion pounds of food over the history of the drive - an awesome achievement.

Each year, groups, businesses, and organizations join the NALC at the local, regional, and

national levels, to help grow a campaign of hunger awareness and community action in conducting

this one-day, record making food drive. From the beginning, at the national level, we have had the

steadfast support of the USPS, United Way, and AFL-CIO. United Food and Commercial Workers

union (UFCW) is the national premiere partner, adding the largest food union in the country to our

efforts. Locally, the Letter Carrier Stamp Out Hunger® food drive enjoys partnerships with many

church and faith groups, rotary and lions clubs, grocers and youth groups, and those who work to

provide help and hope to those in need.

We look forward to another awesome year, as we continue our fight to...

#STAMPOUTHUNGER

To learn more about the National Association of Letter Carriers, click here .

4th Annual Meal Build

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 14:53:05 GMT

Join us in May for our 4th Annual Meal Build in honor of World Hunger Day!

Thank you for your interest in creating a canned food structure to benefit over 192,000 Palm Beach County neighbors who struggle to put food on the table. Our mission of improving the lives of our Palm Beach County neighbors is not possible without a supportive community.

Our 4th Annual Meal Build Campaign will be hosted for the entire month of May in honor of World Hunger Day (May 28). No structure is too big or too small. Use the food collected during your food drive and/or purchased non-perishable items to create an eye-catching structure to put on display at your location from May 18 through May 31. Please register below to participate.

Meal Build In The News

Palm Beach Illustrated

Jupiter Magazine

CBS12 Eye On Community

Important Dates

Deadline to Register is Friday, May 8.

Builds should remain on display from Monday, May 18, through Sunday, May 31.

Empty Bowls Palm Beach

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 22:32:50 GMT

Date : Friday, February 6, 2026

Time : 11:00 am - 2:00 pm

Location:
The Episcopal Church of Bethesda-by-the-Sea

141 South County Road

Palm Beach, FL 33480

*Street parking and complimentary valet parking available

13th Annual Empty Bowls Palm Beach raised 187,000 dollars to provide 935,000 meals!

For the past 13 years, the Church of Bethesda-by-the-Sea has collaborated with the Palm Beach County Food Bank to raise critical funds for our neighbors in need through Empty Bowls Palm Beach. With the support of sponsors and the church, the event is underwritten in its entirety, so that every dollar raised directly supports the Palm Beach County Food Bank. Thanks to the generosity of our community, we raised 1.1 million dollars across 12 years of Empty Bowls Palm Beach!

Your $40 advanced online/$45 at the door 13th Annual Empty Bowls Palm Beach admission includes:

Gourmet soup tastings
Bread roll by Old School Bakery
Cookie
Bottled water
Hand-painted souvenir bowl (while supplies last) - hundreds of unique options available
Goodie bag (while supplies last)
Bake sale
Silent auction

Photography: CAPEHART

Advanced online tickets are SOLD OUT. Thank you! At-the-door tickets are available.

Please consider donating to the Palm Beach County Food Bank if you

can not attend the 13th Annual Empty Bowls Palm Beach.

CLOSED

Help us raise funds by painting a symbolic bowl!

2026 Empty Bowls Palm Beach News

2026 Empty Bowls Palm Beach Photos

CAPEHART

2026 Restaurants and Soup Menu

Event Chef, Chef Doug Barg of the Palm Beach County Food Bank

Thai Red Curry

Bath and Tennis Club - Smoked Brisket Chili

The Beach Club - Curried Butternut Squash

The Breakers Palm Beach

BrickTop's Palm Beach - Lobster Bisque

Cafe Joshua, The Lord's Place

Cafe L'Europe - Winter Vegetable

Club Colette - Manhattan Clam Chowder

The Colony Hotel

E.R. Bradley's Saloon - Tuscan White Bean

The Everglades Club - Stone Crab Bisque

Field of Greens - Vegan Chili

Gourmet Galaxy - Wild Mushroom Barley

Grato - Split Pea

Le Bilboquet - Heirloom Tomato Gazpacho

Old School Bakery - artisanal bread

Paradiso - Lentil Soup

Pistache

Prezzo Italian Restaurant and Bar - Pasta e Fagioli

Renato's - Butternut Squash

Sailfish Club - Conch chowder

TooJay's - Matzo Ball Soup

Trevini - Pasta e Fagioli

B ecome a 13th Annual Empty Bowls Palm Beach Sponsor

To learn more about Empty Bowls Palm Beach 2026 event sponsorship opportunities and benefits, please click the button above or contact Linda Roman, Director of Development, at

Linda@pbcfoodbank.org or call 561.670.2518 x319.

13th Annual Empty Bowls Palm Beach Sponsor s

13th Annual Presenting Sponsors

Anne & Chris Flowers

Anonymous

2026 Platinum Ladle Sponsors

The Leo Rosner Foundation/Bill Robbins

Nancy Goodes

Nancy & Paul Zarcadoolas

2026 Gold Ladle Sponsors

2026 Silver Ladle Sponsors

2026 In-Kind Sponsors

Florida Atlantic’s “Pack to Give Back” Day

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Thu, 13 Nov 2025 21:28:22 GMT

Pack to Give Back. Make an Impact. Saturday, January 31st.

Fighting Food Insecurity In Palm Beach

Register Now & Help Fight Hunger in our County!

Sign up today!

The Florida Atlantic College of Business and the Palm Beach County Food Bank are joining forces for a fun-filled day of volunteering dedicated to alleviating hunger in our community. Through teamwork, energy, and a shared mission, we will pack bulk foods that will be redistributed to food-insecure families throughout Palm Beach County.

Join us on Saturday, January 31st, in the Sean Stein Pavilion at the College of Business on Florida Atlantic's Boca Raton campus. Volunteers will be packing bulk foods to be redistributed to food-insecure families.

Who Can Volunteer?

Florida Atlantic students (individuals, groups, and student organizations)
Florida Atlantic faculty, staff, and alumni
Local community members

How You’ll Help:
Volunteers will work in assembly-line teams to weigh, sort, and package food for families in need. No prior experience needed—just bring your enthusiasm and a willingness to make a difference!

Giving your time is a great way to give back!

Shift Options:

Morning Shift: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Afternoon Shift: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Or stay for the whole day!

Why Volunteer?

Give back to families in need
Earn community service hours
Connect with fellow students, faculty, and local volunteers
Be part of a meaningful initiative that makes a real difference

Florida Atlantic & the Palm Beach County Food Bank Partnership

The Pack to Give Back Day represents a shared commitment to community service, beginning when Eileen Acello, marketing instructor and advisor to FAU’s American Marketing Association (AMA), sought service hour opportunities for her students. Over the years, Eileen has helped strengthen FAU’s connection with the Palm Beach County Food Bank, leading volunteer events, serving on the food bank’s board, and volunteering at the annual Empty Bowls Palm Beach fundraising event.

Through Pack to Give Back Day, the partnership continues, growing the food bank’s impact in the southern part of Palm Beach County and strengthening the bond with Florida Atlantic and the communities served.

Join Us & Make a Difference

Every bag packed is a step toward a hunger-free Palm Beach County. Be a part of something bigger—register today and help bring hope to families in need!

Boca Raton Campus Parking Information: Volunteers can park in the lots located in front of the College of Business building.

Event Address: 777 Glades Rd., Sean Stein Pavilion

Boca Raton, FL 33431

Text Privacy Policy

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 16:54:30 GMT

Messaging Privacy Policy  

Effective Date: 9/11/2025  

Palm Beach County Food Bank (“we,” “us,” “our”) respects your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal information. This Privacy Policy explains how Palm Beach County Food Bank collects and uses information about you when you opt-in to receive SMS messages from us.  

Information We Collect

When you opt-in to receive SMS messages, we collect: 

Your phone number 
Consent to send SMS messages 
Your email address  
Your basic contact information  
Your messaging history

How We Collect Your Information  

We may collect your information directly from you, such as when you complete a form or contact us or automatically, such as when you interact with our website. 

How We Use Your Information  

We use your information to: 

Send you the SMS messages you’ve opted in to receive 
Provide updates, promotions, or other relevant content based on your preferences 
Choices and Controls 
To operate our business

You can opt out of receiving SMS messages at any time by replying STOP to any message we send you. You can review our Terms for additional information about the opt-out process. 

To Whom We Disclose Your Information  

We may disclose your information to our affiliated companies; to third party service providers, business advisors, or consultants who provide services to us; in connection with a merger, acquisition, reorganization, restructuring, financing transactions or sale of assets; as required by law or administrative order; to assert claims or rights or to defend against claims.

We do not share your personal information, phone number, or SMS consent opt-in data with third parties or affiliates for marketing or promotional purposes. 

Protection of Information  

We take steps to protect your information against unauthorized use or disclosure.  

Updates  

We may periodically update this privacy policy. If we make material changes that have a substantive and adverse impact on your privacy, we will provide notice on this website prior to the change becoming effective. We encourage you to periodically review this page for the latest information about our privacy practices. 

How to Contact Us   

You can reach us by texting the word HELP for support to 561-670-2518

You may also contact us directly at info@pbcfoodbank.org. 

Text Terms and Conditions

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 16:52:12 GMT

Recurring Message Terms and Conditions

Effective Date : 9/11/25 

By opting in to receive SMS messages from Palm Beach County Food Bank [also known as Palm Beach County Food Bank Inc.] (“we,” “us,” “our”), you agree to these Terms and Conditions (Terms). 

SMS Messaging Service  

By providing my phone number, I consent to receive SMS text messages from Palm Beach County Food Bank for appointment reminders, marketing messages, and general two-way communication about customer service. Message and Data Rates may apply. 

Message Frequency  

You will get more than one message from us unless you opt-out, and while messaging frequency varies, you will likely receive up to 4 messages per month. Palm Beach County Food Bank reserves the right to alter the frequency of messages at any time to increase or decrease the total number of messages. Palm Beach County Food Bank and carriers are not liable for delays or undelivered messages. 

Message and Data Rates  

Message and data rates may apply based on your mobile carrier’s terms. 

Privacy Policy  

Your information will be handled in accordance with our Privacy Policy . 

Cancellation/Opt-Out Instructions  

You can opt out of receiving SMS messages at any time by replying STOP to any message we send you. After you opt out of text messaging, you will receive one additional message confirming your request has been processed.  

Help/Customer Support  

Text the word HELP for support. You may also contact us directly at 561-670-2518 or info@pbcfoodbank.org .

Liability  

We are not responsible for any charges, errors, or delays in SMS delivery or undelivered messages caused by your carrier or third-party service providers. 

Kravis Center's Pack to Give Back: Day of 200,000 Meals

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Wed, 30 Jul 2025 16:31:12 GMT

2nd annual pack to give back: Day of 200,000 Meals

with the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts .

More than 192,000 residents of Palm Beach County struggle with hunger, including 50,000 children who do not have enough to eat every day. Please join the Palm Beach County Food Bank on September 16th as we mark Hunger Action Day by packing 200,000 meals for our neighbors in need.

Up to 1,000 volunteers will receive this year's complimentary official Palm Beach County Food Bank Hunger Hero t-shirt!

Please consider bringing a jar or two of peanut butter or nut butter with you to the Kravis Center for our Hunger Action Day

Peanut Butter Food Drive .

2nd Annual pack to give back: Day of 200,000 Meals Sponsors

2025 Title Sponsor

2025 in-kind Sponsor

2025 Presenting Sponsor

2025 Hunger Superheroes

2025 Hunger Champions

2025 Hunger Partners

2025 Food Bank Friends

2025 Music and Entertainment by

All sponsorship contributions will be matched dollar for dollar up to $200,000!

$1 = 10 meals

Please note : For recognition on event t-shirt , sponsors must submit their print-ready [300 dpi, vector logo (.ai, .eps,or .svg)] by Wednesday, August 20 , 2025 to info@pbcfoodbank.org . For recognition on event banners, social media, Food Bank website, and email blasts , sponsors must submit their print-ready [300 dpi, vector logo (.ai, .eps,or .svg)] by Tuesday, September 5 , 2025 to info@pbcfoodbank.org .

5th Annual Back-to-School Food Drive

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Thu, 10 Jul 2025 14:01:57 GMT

One can, two can, who can? You can end hunger!

Join the Palm Beach County Food Bank and local partners as we impact childhood hunger and provide nutritious meals for our youth.

Between

Friday, August 1, 2025

through

Sunday, August 31, 2025

27 Sites throughout Palm Beach County will host back-to-school food drives just before the school year begins.

Thank you to our supporting locations!

Food Drop-Off Sites include:

August 1 - August 31

Nourished, Spring 2025

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 18:31:22 GMT

A bi-annual newsletter publication of Palm Beach County Food Bank

2024 in Review

12.9 million meals distributed in 2024

A letter from our CEO

Dear Neighbor,

Since we opened our community kitchen doors at our long-awaited, symbolic bread-breaking ceremony in June 2024, our transformational expansion initiatives have been well underway, nourishing our neighbors in need in innovative ways. It’s an exciting time at the Food Bank.

The buzz of activity here at our facility is heard in every corner. The scent of our Michelle Hagerty Community Kitchen , serving up hot meals for delivery and preparing to receive culinary students, fills the air. A thriving, expanded Lois’ Food4Kids Volunteer Center is simultaneously boxing up meals, sorting produce, and packing pantry staples for multiple programs with twice as many compassionate volunteers.

But, the truth is, our efforts to grow our services and resources means more and more of our community needs us. The Food Bank’s growth means there is an increase in hunger in Palm Beach County.

I wish for a day when children, seniors, families, and our Palm Beach County neighbors won’t need us. A day when our programs will help people experiencing hunger provide for themselves. This is when our work ends and our vision of alleviating hunger in Palm Beach County starts.

Your support moves this vision forward. It means fewer children, seniors, families, and neighbors going through life hungry. Together, our mission of nourishing our neighbors and improving their lives one meal at a time will allow our vision to become a reality.

Thank you for seeing our vision and taking action to support hunger relief in Palm Beach County.

With gratitude and appreciation,

Jamie Kendall

Board of Directors

Hunger doesn't take a summer break!

Summer BreakSpot

This summer we will officially begin our participation in the Florida Department of Agriculture Summer BreakSpot program!

Summer BreakSpot is a federally funded program helping fill the hunger gap by serving nutritious meals to Florida kids and teens while school is out at no cost to families.

Interested in participating? Contact the Programs team at

programs@pbcfoodbank.org or 561-670-2518 ext. 304 or 310.

Hunger Heroes

Volunteer Spotlight

For Cathy Lozier, volunteering at the Palm Beach County Food Bank is more than a weekly routine, it’s a tribute to her mother’s legacy.

Cathy’s mother, a teacher and longtime volunteer with a local nonprofit, spent over 20 years feeding and caring for those in need. After her passing, Cathy stepped in to continue that mission. “I’m taking her place,” she said, fittingly, on what would have been her mother’s birthday.

Every Thursday, Cathy joins a group of women to pack meals for children in the Lois’ Food4Kids/Weekend Backpack Program. What keeps her coming back is the impact and the gratitude. “Last year, the kids made us thank-you cards with crayon drawings. It meant everything.”

Cathy’s service is a living memory: steady and full of heart .

FOOD DRIVES

FPL- NextEra Energy Food Drive hosted in summer 2024

Two passionate interns organized a food drive between the Palm Beach Gardens and Juno Beach offices of NextEra Energy. Their initiative collected 346 pounds of food, providing 288 meals for families in need. Thank you for your leadership and generosity!

“Hosting a food drive isn’t just about donating goods, it’s about fostering a culture of empathy and teamwork.”

247,839 Meals provided by Food Drives from July - December 2024

Upcoming Food Drives

May: 3rd Annual Meal Build

May 10: Stamp Out Hunger with the National Association of Letter Carriers

August: 5th Annual Back-to-School Food Drive

September: Take Action Food & Fund Drive (Hunger Action Month)

Together, we nourish

Transformational $2 million gift

Michelle Hagerty

Community Kitchen

“I support The Palm Beach County Food Bank

and wanted to name the community kitchen because no one should ever have to wonder where their next meal is coming from . Supporting PBCFB isn’t just about food, it’s about dignity, hope, and the belief that we all have a role in lifting one another up. Philanthropy is my way of investing in a stronger and more compassionate future for everyone."

- Michelle Hagerty

Premier Kitchen

Events

A Kitchen with A Cause

with Chef Doug Barg

561-670-2518

info@pbcfoodbank.org

There's still time to

Fill the Plates

in Palm Beach County!

Your generous donation will be honored with a hand-blown glass plate, proudly displayed on our

 “Fill the Plates” wall.

Fill the plates for hunger relief!

Food Truck Gift

The transformational growth and extraordinary expansion at Palm Beach County Food Bank continues with the exceedingly generous gift of a food truck!

Stacey Hallberg of Northern Trust and David “Dave” Reilly gifted the Food Bank in the fall with a fully-equipped food truck to use for a new hunger relief initiative. We could not be more thankful to them for this exciting opportunity to nourish more neighbors in need in innovative ways. Follow us for more updates about where this food truck will go!

PROGRAMS

Empty Bowls Palm Beach Raises $123,000 to Fight Hunger

On a beautiful February Day, almost 600 guests gathered for the 12th Annual Empty Bowls Palm Beach, hosted by The Church of Bethesda-by-the-Sea. Together, we provided nearly 615,000 meals to nourish over 173,000 neighbors facing food insecurity in our community.

With soups donated by 24 local restaurants , a bake sale, and over 650 hand-painted bowls , the event was a powerful reminder that small acts, like eating simply, can have a big impact.

Thank you to our volunteers, sponsors, and supporters for making this event a success!

Thank you

Presenting Sponsors : Anne and Chris Flowers, Platinum Ladle Sponsors : Axis Redistribution, Leo Rosner Foundation, Perdue, Smithfield Gold Ladle Sponsors : Ed Carter, Debbie and Michael Pucillo, Silver Ladle Sponsors : DSS, Inc., Dole Packaged Foods, Ecolab/Swisher, ItalCrust, J.P. Morgan Wealth Management, Madeline Andrews, Florida Power & Light, PDS Wealth Management, Cindy and Ron McMackin, Amy and Gary Sullivan, Velocity Community Credit Union, Bread Sponsor : Old School Bakery.

Groceries for Seniors Program Addresses

 Food Insecurity at Home

Healthy Food, Happier Kids: “Childhood Hunger Initiatives” Hot Meals Program Grows

Launched in 2024, Groceries for Seniors delivers nutritious, personalized groceries to low-income seniors (60+, or 50+ with a disability).

With over 48,000 meals already provided, Groceries for Seniors supports health, independence, and dignity.

Since July 2024, the Palm Beach County Food Bank and FLIPANY have served over 38,000 hot, nutritious meals to children through the Afterschool Meals program.

Launched as a summer pilot, the program quickly expanded to after-school sites. Parents, through feedback shared with FLIPANY, praise the food as “phenomenal, healthy, and made with real ingredients.”

COMMUNITY

Palm Beach County is home to nearly 1.5 million people from all walks of life. Tourists from all over the country visit year-round to enjoy the culture we have to offer. We live where it’s hard to believe hunger exists. At the supermarket, pharmacy, and gas station, our neighbors at the checkout line might have skipped their meals today to let their children eat rather than pay medical bills or to fuel up their car to make it to work.

Neighbors like Claudia struggle to put food on the table because of unexpected circumstances. Claudia worked for nearly four decades before retiring and continuing her life with her husband. With their modest savings and both their retirement incomes, life was comfortable with enough funds to buy groceries and pay utility bills. “I thought the rest of my life was going to be fine and happy,” said Claudia as she remembered her life before.

Life took a turn for the worse for Claudia after she became the victim of domestic violence at the hands of her husband two years ago. She said, “That day, I didn’t think I would make it, but I knew I had to fight.” After her husband depleted their shared bank accounts and sold her car, Claudia was left alone, traumatized, and penniless. Her children offered the little help they could, but they were feeling the challenges of inflation and increased cost of living, too.

Things started to look up when she found the Palm Beach County Food Bank. She made an appointment with one of our Benefits Outreach Specialists for assistance and found the Partner Marketplace agency nearest her to visit their weekly food pantry. Claudia shared, “I’m so grateful to Sacha [Benefits Outreach Specialist] and all of you. It’s a great help.”

“Everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about. Be kind. Always.” -Brad Meltzer

Childhood Hunger Initiatives

Lois’ Food4Kids/Weekend Food for Kids parents said:

“It's given our family meal planning of healthy ways to eat. It has put food on our table.”

“Sometimes I don't have anything to give to my children in the afternoon. I give them what is in the bags I get every Friday.”

“The simple things like rice and dry beans helps feed us at least for two days.”

“This program has served as a relief for the food needs of my children.”

“Thanks to your program my children have healthy food available .”

Disclosure

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Fri, 18 Apr 2025 15:08:08 GMT

Palm Beach County Food Bank Disclosure

In accordance with federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity.

Program information may be made available in languages other than English. Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication to obtain program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language), should contact the responsible state or local agency that administers the program or USDA’s TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TTY) or contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339.

To file a program discrimination complaint, a Complainant should complete a Form AD-3027, USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form which can be obtained online at: https://www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/USDA-OASCR%20

P-Complaint-Form-0508-0002-508-11-28-17Fax2Mail.pdf, from any USDA office, by calling (866) 632-9992, or by writing a letter addressed to USDA. The letter must contain the complainant’s name, address, telephone number, and a written description of the alleged discriminatory action in sufficient detail to inform the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights (ASCR) about the nature and date of an alleged civil rights violation. The completed AD-3027 form or letter must be submitted to

USDA by:

1. mail :

U.S. Department of Agriculture

Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights

1400 Independence Avenue, SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; or

2. fax : (833) 256-1665 or (202) 690-7442; or

3. email : program.intake@usda.gov

This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

3rd Annual Meal Build

rosemonde@pbcfoodbank.org (Rose Norzea) — Fri, 21 Mar 2025 13:21:19 GMT

Join us in May for our 3rd Annual Meal Build in honor of World Hunger Day!

Thank you for your interest in creating a canned food structure to benefit over 173,000 Palm Beach County neighbors who struggle to put food on the table. Our mission of improving the lives of our Palm Beach County neighbors is not possible without a supportive community.

Our 3rd Annual Meal Build Campaign will be hosted for the entire month of May in honor of World Hunger Day (May 28th). No structure is too big or too small. Use the food collected during your food drive and/or purchased non-perishable items to create an eye-catching structure to be on display at your location from May 19th through May 31st. Please register below to participate.

Important Dates

Deadline to Register is Friday, May 9.

Builds should remain on display from Monday, May 19, through Friday, May 31.

January and February 2025 News

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Thu, 06 Mar 2025 04:06:53 GMT

News coverage for Empty Bowls Palm Beach, Food Insecurity, and Federal Funding

Empty Bowls Palm Beach

WPBF - online article

CBS12 - online article

Palm Beach Civic Association - online article

Around Wellington - online article
WFLX - online article
Palm Beach Daily News/Shiny Sheet pre-event - online article
Palm Beach Daily News/Shiny Sheet post -event - online article
Palm Beach Daily News/Shiny Sheet event photos

Federal Funding

WPTV - online article
WPBF - online article

Food Insecurity

WPTV - online article
Yahoo - online article

Nourished, Summer 2024 Newsletter

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Wed, 28 Aug 2024 20:44:47 GMT

A bi-annual publication of the Palm Beach County Food Bank.

Community Kitchen Expansion Project Bread-Breaking

On Wednesday, June 5th, 2024, Palm Beach County

Food Bank, Palm Beach County Board of County

Commissioners, United Way of Palm Beach County,

and community supporters broke bread to celebrate the

Community Kitchen Expansion Project in the works for

over two and a half years. After cutting the ceremony’s

symbolic bread loaf, guests toured the new, state-of-theart

facility, which can provide 10,000 hot, nutritious meals

a day.

Once we are up and running, our neighbors in need will

receive daily and emergency resources from our commercial kitchen, produce processing center, increased

food storage warehouse, upgraded volunteer center, and

a larger Benefits Outreach Program family area. We sincerely appreciate everyone who joined us to celebrate this two-and-a-half-year journey and transformational

resource!

2 CEO'S Desk 3 Take Action 4 Community 5 Programs 6 Events

4th Annual Back-to-School Food Drive in the News

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Fri, 16 Aug 2024 18:34:08 GMT

This year's Back-to-School Food Drive received coverage from Around Wellington, Florida Weekly, and WPBF Channel 25 News.

WPBF Channel 25 News coverage

Read all about it and watch the interview on WPBF here .

Florida Weekly's coverage

Read all about it on Florida Weekly .

Around Wellington's coverage

4th Annual "One Can, Two Can, Who Can? You Can!" Back-to-School Food Drive

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Thu, 01 Aug 2024 13:33:48 GMT

One can, two can, who can? You can end hunger!

Join the Palm Beach County Food Bank and local partners as we impact childhood hunger and provide nutritious meals for our youth. Between Thursday, August 1, 2024 - Saturday, August 31, 2024 , 25 sites throughout Palm Beach County will host Back to School Food Drives just before the school year begins.

Thank you to our supporting locations!

Food Drop-Off Sites include:

August 1 - August 31

August 26 - September 20

Nourished, Winter 2024 Newsletter

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Tue, 16 Apr 2024 01:23:14 GMT

A newsletter publication of Palm Beach County Food Bank

Dear Neighbor,

Every day, amidst the towering shelves of food and the hum of a busy warehouse, I see the starfish story replay itself in a thousand ripples in our community.

The story goes like this: A child stumbles upon a beach filled with starfish washed ashore after a storm. Wanting to help, they toss the starfish back into the ocean, one by one. An adult watching them asks, “Don’t you know it’s pointless? You can’t possibly save them all.” As the child throws a starfish into the ocean, they reply, “I made a difference to that one.”

We face that overwhelming tide of need at the Food Bank every day. It’s easy to feel like one can of beans, one bag of rice, is a mere splash in a vast ocean of hunger.

The starfish story is the essence of our mission at the Food Bank. We may not single-handedly end hunger, that vast ocean threatening to engulf so many. But like the child on the beach, we refuse to turn away. We focus on the starfish in front of us - families choosing between rent and groceries, seniors choosing between medication and food, and children too hungry to focus at school.

I recently had the privilege of meeting with Evalin, a single mother of two who relies on our partner agencies. She shared how a single bag of groceries means her son can finally have birthday cake this year. Every day, we see the starfish we toss back into the ocean contributing to our neighbors’ lives.

We tossed quite a few starfish back into the waves in the past year. We distributed over 13 million meals , providing nourishment and hope. But the ocean stretches vast, and countless starfish still cling to the sand. Will you join us by throwing back a starfish? While we may not be able to save them all, we can certainly make a difference for those we reach.

With unwavering hope,

Jamie Kendall, CEO

As part of our Childhood Hunger Initiatives (CHI) , our Lois’ Food4Kids and Weekend Food for Kids programs provide 4,000 children one dinner, two breakfasts, two lunches, two drinks, two snacks, and a family meal every Friday to have nourishment over the weekend when they do not have access to free breakfast and lunch at school.

“ It brings more security to know my son is receiving this food. ” - CHI Parent

Hunger Action Month Inaugural Day of 100,000 Meals

The Breakers and United Way of Palm Beach County provided 169,318 meals for the children, families, seniors, and neighbors struggling to put food on the table in our community. Nearly 200 volunteers and staff packed pasta for our partner agencies.

When you volunteer, you can:

Pack pasta or rice
Sort gleaned produce
Categorize food drive donations
Pack school backpack kits
Pack grocery kits for seniors

We are nearing the finish line! Our expansion project with Palm Beach County and United Way of Palm Beach County is nearing completion. Everyone is filled with excitement at the transformational change our community will experience once doors open.

Our neighbors in need will receive more aid and food from a commercial kitchen with a produce processing facility and culinary training program space, wrap-around services with a family meeting area, expanded volunteer center, and additional storage space. Be sure to follow us on social media for updates!

Nourished, Winter 2024

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Wed, 13 Mar 2024 21:25:00 GMT

A newsletter publication of Palm Beach County Food Bank

Dear Neighbor,

Every day, amidst the towering shelves of food and the hum of a busy warehouse, I see the starfish story replay itself in a thousand ripples in our community.

We face that overwhelming tide of need at the Food Bank every day. It’s easy to feel like one can of beans, one bag of rice, is a mere splash in a vast ocean of hunger.

With unwavering hope,

Jamie Kendall, CEO

“ It brings more security to know my son is receiving this food. ” - CHI Parent

Hunger Action Month Inaugural Day of 100,000 Meals

When you volunteer, you can:

Pack pasta or rice
Sort gleaned produce
Categorize food drive donations
Pack school backpack kits
Pack grocery kits for seniors

2nd Annual Meal Build

rosemonde@pbcfoodbank.org (Rose Norzea) — Thu, 25 Jan 2024 20:52:43 GMT

Join us in May for our 2nd Annual Meal Build in honor of World Hunger Day!

Thank you for your interest in creating a canned food structure to benefit our over 132,000 Palm Beach County neighbors who struggle to put food on the table. Our mission of improving the lives of our Palm Beach County neighbors is not possible without a supportive community.

Our 2nd Annual Meal Build Campaign will be hosted for the entire month of May in honor of World Hunger Day (May 28th). No structure is too big or too small. Use the food collected during your food drive to create an eye-catching structure to be on display at your location from May 17th through May 31st. Please register below to participate.

Important Dates

Builds should remain on display from Friday, May 17, through Friday, May 31.

Over 375,000 meals brought in at the 8th Annual Empty Bowls Delray Beach

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Fri, 15 Dec 2023 21:42:21 GMT

Thanks to our community of supporters at The 8th Annual Empty Bowls Delray Beach, we raised over $75,000!

Saturday, December 9, 2023, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
at Trinity Delray Lutheran Church & School.

Event Chairs
Diane Brewer
John Brewer @solfo_restaurantguy

Honorary Chair
Stephanie Dodge

Lifetime Honorary Chairs
Shelly & Billy Himmelrich @oldschoolbakery

Event Sponsors
Trinity Delray
ArtSea Living
Delray Magazine
Debbie & Michael Pucillo
DSS, Incorporated
EdwardJones
From Roehm With Love
Brenda & Leanne Adair
J.P. Morgan Wealth Management
Louise Glover
Mouw Associates Inc.
Old School Bakery - Shelly & Billy Himmelrich
Red Steel Properties
Stuart & Shelby Development
The Garchik Family Foundation
The Dodge Family
The Zarcadoolas Family

Donating Restaurants
800 Palm Trail
Belladukes
Burt and Max's
Caffe Luna Rosa
Ceasars Ribs
Chez Gourmet
Deck 84
Dennis Gaudet
EaThai
Flybird
Glam Girlz Party Planning
J & J Seafood
Longhorn Steak House
Marianne's Catering
Max's Grille
Papa's Tapas
Ramen Lab
Silver Sac Catering
Space of Mind
The Elks
The Sandwich Man & Pizza Too
Tin Muffin
Windy City Pizza
Old School Bakery

Thank you, WPTV , WPBF, and WPEC for your coverage!

2023 #GivingTuesday and WPBF Day of Giving

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Thu, 14 Dec 2023 19:21:02 GMT

Your generosity helped us exceed our $50,000 goal. Our community raised $125,000 to provide 625,000 meals!

#GivingTuesday and WPBF Day of Giving was an incredible success thanks to you!

We are abundantly grateful to you for giving this Giving Tuesday to nourish our neighbors in need this holiday season. With the support of an anonymous donor, every dollar you donated was matched up to $50,000. In total, we raised $125,000 ! Surpassing our goal means 625,000 meals will make it to our neighbors' homes in time for the holidays!

All of this is only possible because of you! Thank you for your generous spirit and giving heart.

Together, we nourish our neighbors and improve their lives one meal at a time.

Nourished, Summer 2023

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Thu, 17 Aug 2023 18:15:31 GMT

No contribution is too small

Every food drive, fund drive, and monetary gift makes a difference in providing meals for our neighbors in need. Ms. Morisset, Boynton Beach Community High School Science Teacher, showed that when she inspired her chapter of National Honor Society students to give back this spring.

Between February and April, Morisset motivated her students to gather food to fill two of our three-foot tall food drive cardboard bins. The students collected 61 pounds of food to provide 51 meals for our Partner Marketplace partner agencies! Ms. Morisset says, “We hope to increase this number even more so next school year!”

You can start a food drive tod ay. It’s easy. After filling out the Food Bank’s food drive request form on our website, our Community Engagement Coordinator, will reach out to assist you with collection bins, picking up your donations, and setting up your fund drive page if you are raising funds.

Read more about food drives held for the Food Bank below.

Small acts of kindness.

This young donor’s $1 gift, which she so generously

contributes from her allowance, will provide

five meals to our Palm Beach County neighbors in need

this summer.

When you give, you turn hunger into hope.

CEO's Desk

Dear Neighbor,

Many big, transformational changes are underway at the Food Bank, but many small, inspirational moments made up this year. Looking back at this spring and where we are headed this summer, I’m reminded of the small acts of kindness that provided more than 11 million meals to our Palm Beach County neighbors over the past 12 months.

With Hunger Action Month approaching in September, no action is too small. We offer several opportunities to take action through our robust volunteer program, monthly food drive campaigns, event partnerships, and online giving. Because orange is the official color of hunger, I also encourage you to wear orange on Hunger Action Day , September 23 , to raise awareness about the food insecurity 132,000 of our neighbors face here at home.

Together, we are nourishing our neighbors in need with nutritious food they can depend on. I cannot thank you enough for your support in providing hunger assistance for our community. Your acts of kindness are what move our mission forward in alleviating hunger.

With gratitude,

Jamie Kendall, CEO

Lois Pope and LIFE's 29th Annual Lady in Red Gala

The Food Bank is once again one of two nonprofit recipients of Lois Pope and LIFE’s Lady in Red Gala proceeds. The extraordinary evening raised $450,000 for the Food Bank’s Childhood Hunger Initiatives Lois’ Food4Kids program ! This incredible gift will provide 2.2 million meals !

Lois’ Food4Kids provides meals in backpacks to over 5,500 students and their families every weekend, summer, and throughout the holidays. We are immensely thankful to Lois Pope and LIFE for their tremendous support in alleviating hunger.

Corporate Spotlight

The results are in! After receiving 155,915 votes from Target shoppers, the Target Circle Giving Program donated $5,011.48 to the Palm Beach County Food Bank! With generous votes and funding, we will provide 25,055 meals to Palm Beach County neighbors experiencing food insecurity. This donation came from a larger pool of funds donated from Target to nonprofits tied to the local community.

Food and Fund Drives

Florida Atlantic University American Marketing Association with FAU Beyond Food, lead by Eileen Acello, Food Bank Board member.

Students placed bins and original flyers in dorms. The food drive helped FAU Beyond Food apply to become a Food Bank partner agency so we can provide food to FAU students year-round!

1,154 meals

Anonymous donation of 9,362 pounds of food and a $55,365 gift to provide 284,627 meals! Over 15 pallets of food were collected.

284,627 meals

The Mirasol Foundation and community held a one-day drive in April where they collected 854 pounds of food.

712 meals

On May 13, the 31st Annual National Association of Letter

Carriers Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive collected 17,615 pounds of food!

14,679 meals

The Inaugural Meal Build Food Drive participants, Suffolk Construction, created a 4,300-canned food structure weighing 4,000 pounds using a 3D model with a team of 11 over 10 hours!

3,334 meals

Thank you Suffolk and WPBF News 25 for

covering Meal Build 2023.

A team of seven Food Bank staff designed a giant can weighing 855 pounds using 912 15-ounce cans to raise awareness about the hunger 132,000 of our neighbors face everyday.

713 meals

Join us in May 2024 for the 2nd Annual Meal Build

Food Drive!

Devonshire at PGA National held their 2nd annual food drive in June to benefit the Food Bank. Flyers and thirteen donation bins were placed around the community for residents to easily donate shelf-stable foods.

717 meals

The Town of Lantana, Lantana Municipal Library, and the Greater Lantana Chamber of Commerce collected canned food under the leadership of Mayor Karen Lythgoe.

105 me als

The Shake FL jammed for a cause during their 2nd Shake and Bake Food Drive by donating all admissions (canned food and monetary) from their ten-band concert in June.

1,065 meals

We’re grateful to everyone who donated to, hosted, and supported a food drive. You turn hunger into hope for thousands of neighbors in need. It’s never too late to make a difference! For a schedule of monthly themed-food drives, visit our food donation page .

Events

The 10th Annual Empty Bowls Palm Beach was a record-breaking success. We raised over $136,000 to provide over 680,000 meals to our neighbors in need here at home!

Thank you to all our event sponsors, donating restaurants and chairs – Rick & Cordella Miessau, Johanna Reyers, Amy Sullivan, Byron & Laura Russell – for making the fundraiser an exceptional event. Save the date as plans are underway for next year’s event to be held on Friday, February 23, 2024.

Join us next month on Saturday, September 30 , for the 2nd Annual Empty Bowls in the Gardens hosted by Downtown Palm Beach Gardens ! We are honored to present this year’s event chairs and board members Nancy Bolton and Eileen Acello (left). It will be a SOUP-er good time!

In the Fall, we hope to see you at the 8th Annual Empty Bowls Delray Beach on Saturday, December 9 , at Trinity Delray Lutheran Church and School! This year’s magnificent event chairs are John and Diane Brewer (below).

General admission tickets include soups from local restaurants, artisanal bread from Old School Bakery, bottled water, a hand-painted ceramic bowl, and a swag bag. VIP ticket guests also receive catered light bites and alcoholic beverages. We are looking forward to a fantastic season of Empty Bowls. Let’s eat simply so others may simply eat!

For more information, restaurants, and sponsorships, visit

our Events page .

Volunteer Spotlight: Larry K.

Larry’s commitment to service began during his time with the USDA, where he worked supporting food banks. After retiring, Larry felt called to continue his work in South Florida. Larry volunteers because he believes, “If you’re not part of the solution, you’re part of the problem.” Thank you so much for the 100-plus service hours you’ve given to our community!

Without volunteers we would need to hire 25 employees. That would cost the Food Bank over one million dollars a year ! Our volunteers are priceless. We appreciate you all!

This student is one of 38,000 children living in a food-insecure household. He does not always know what he will eat or when.

Programs

Our Programs team works day in and day out to serve over 200 partner agencies in the county, including schools, churches, shelters, soup kitchens, and food pantries. Liz, Senior Manager of Hunger Relief, Zekera, Childhood Hunger Initiatives Manager, and Johanna, Program Coordinator, make sure our Partner Marketplace, Pop-Up Farmers Market, Groceries for Seniors, and Childhood Hunger Initiatives nourish an average of 200,000 community neighbors monthly .

3rd Annual Back-to-School Food Drive on WPBF

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Tue, 15 Aug 2023 20:27:00 GMT

One can, two can. Who can? You can end hunger!

Watch the live, in-studio interview with WPBF Channel 25 News with Nathalie Pozo and LaShaundra Highsmith, Palm Beach County Food Bank Director of Special Events and Marketing.

Donate protein-rich, shelf-stable foods to the Palm Beach County Food Bank for children and families to start off the school year on the right foot. Every donation makes a difference for our neighbors in need. Over 38,000 children struggle with food insecurity in the Palm Beaches.

Donate canned beef, chicken, fish, beans, vegetables, fruit, peanut butter, and other non-perishable proteins at 19 locations. See all locations here .

Visit WPBF's website and read and watch more here .

Food Drive Spotlight

rosemonde@pbcfoodbank.org (Rose Norzea) — Wed, 02 Aug 2023 18:23:17 GMT

2025 Food Drives - August through December

Thank you, Food Drive Donors for partnering with the Palm Beach County Food Bank to nourish our neighbors and improve their lives one meal at a time.

*Each month we highlight a Food Drive Partner to showcase the incredible impact they are making in hunger relief.

Our 2025 Food Drive Partners hosted food drives from August to December to alleviate hunger. As a result,

88,740 pounds of food were donated

$63,239 was raised

providing over 390,145 nutritious meals

to the 192,000 families, children, seniors, and individuals who struggle with food insecurity in Palm Beach County.

Food Drive Partners

T ogether, o ver 210 Food Drive Partners provided more than 390,145 nutritious meals to our neighbors in need.

15th Judicial Circuit Courts, Aberdeen East Clubhouse, AFLCIO Labor Day Picnic Food Drive at IBEW, American German Club, American Heritage Palm Beach Campus, Andersen Tax LLC, Archstone Behavioral Health, ASCE Palm Beach, Asset Living, Axis Redistribution, Bainbridge Management, Bake & Serve, Inc., Banyan Golf Club, Barton Associates, Bellasera Neighborhood, Bluffs School, Inc., Cascade Fitness, Celsius, Ceramic Pro Palm Beach, Children's Therapies Inc.,, City of Palm Beach Gardens, Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller of PBC, Club Oasis, Club Pilates East Boynton, Club Pilates Wellington, CSL Plasma, CWA Local 3181, Dark Tide Tattoos, Delray Beach Pickleball Club, Delray Center for Healing, Delray Dunes Garden Club, Delray Fit Body, Democracy Matters Boynton Beach #GiveHealthy Food Drive 2025, Desi Helping Hands, Diamond View Elementary School, Double Infinity Gaming, Ed Morse Automotive Group, Enercon Services, Inc., EoS Fitness, First Horizon Bank ( Delray Beach, Jupiter, Military Trail, North Olive, First Palm Beach Island, Palm Beach Lakes Office, PGA Back Office, PGA Banking Center ) Forest Hill Community High School JROTC, Fountain Blue Pools, FPL, Franks, Koenig & Neuwelt, Frenchman's Creek PGA, Frenchman's Reserve, Gateway Classic Cars and Simply Clean Detailing (Simply Social Autofest), Golden Grove Elementary School, Greyson Clothiers, Greystar- Midtown Delray, Guidepost Montessori at Palm Beach Gardens, Gulf Stream School, Harbour Oaks Neighborhood, HCA Florida Hospitals ( JFK, Palms West, JFK North ), Health and Wellness Dentistry, Health Care District of Palm Beach County, High Ridge Country Club, Highland Beach Club, Hinterland Group , Ibis Neighbors Fight Hunger Food Drive, Illustrated Properties, Immersion Residential, Internet Resource Group, Island Root Kava, Jezerinac Group, PLLC, Jones Foster, Josh Johnson Comedy Show "Live Food Drive" at the Kravis Center, Kappa Psi Pharm Inc., Kitson & Partners, KLA Schools ( Boynton Beach & Lake Worth ), Kravis Center's Peanut Butter Drive (Day of 200k Meals), Laura's Sewing & Fabric, Lia Nistico #GiveHealthy Food Drive 2025, License to Shine LLC, Little Dude Ranch Academy, Lucerne Pointe Women's Club, Marriott Ocean Pointe, Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience, May Dentistry, Mira Flores Apartments, Mirasol Foundation Fall Drive 2025, Mirasol School, Morning Calm Management - WPB, Morselife Health System, Movement Mortgage, MPLT Healthcare, Napleton Auto Group, National Honor Society, Nestle Health Science, NewDay USA, NextEra Energy, Nicklaus Urgent Care Center, Nordic Tree Water, North Palm Fit Body, Norton Museum of Art, Onity Group Inc., Our Lives with MS Support Group, Oxbridge Academy, Palm Beach Country Club, Palm Beach County Maintenance and Plant Operations, Palm Beach County TDC, Palm Beach Dragon Fruit, Palm Beach Dramaworks, Palm Beach House Women's Club, Palm Beach Lakes High School, Palm Beach Plantation Community, Palm Beach Pole + Aerial Fitness, Palm Springs Apartments, Paradise Real Estate International, PBC Libraries ( Acreage Branch, Canyon Branch, Gardens Branch, Glades Road, Greenacres Branch, Hagen Ranch Road Branch, Lantana Branch, Main Library, Okeechobee Boulevard Branch, Wellington Branch, West Boca Branch ), PGA Resort Community Plat of Greenwood HOA, PHH Mortage, Pigsty BBQ, Pine and Palm Tattoos, Pulte Group, Realty One Group Innovation, Related Ross, River Bridge POA, Rorabeck's Plants & Produce, Royal Palm Beach Branch, Royal Palm Beach High School DECA, Rust & Wax Record Shop, Sacred Hearts School, Safe Harbor, Santaluces Community High School, Scarlett's 7th Annual Food Drive, School District of Palm Beach County, Score Academy Wellington, Scripps Research Institute, Seminole Ridge SGA, Ship Sticks, Shutts & Bowen LLP, Solidcore, South Florida Water Management, Special Olympics, St. Mary's Medical Center, Starlight Cove Elementary School, STORE Self Storage, Stormhouse Brewing "Live" Food Drive Event, Summit Kids Academy, Sunday Motor Co., Synergy Health & Wellness, Synergy Physical Therapy, The 561 Bills Backers Food Drive, The Agency , The Decorators Unlimited, The Gerald A. Williams Center Pre-Law at PBLHS, The Grove at Boynton Beach Community, The Lab Method, The Learning Experience, The Point ( Palm Beach Gardens, Palm Beach Grove, Southern Blvd ), The Village of Tequesta Food Drive, The Zoo Health Club, Timber Trace Elementary School, Trane Technologies, United Realty Group Delray Beach, University of Miami, USPA Global Licensing, Inc, WayFM The World's Largest Food Drive Campaign, Wellington Bay, Women's Chamber of Commerce of Palm Beach County

THANK YOU!

Take Action, Start a Food Drive Today!

CBS 12 'Feed the Need' Telethon

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Tue, 27 Jun 2023 18:37:03 GMT

2023 CBS 12 News 'Feed the Need' Telethon raised over $10,000!

The first annual CBS 12 News 'Feed the Need' Telethon raised over $10,000 to provide more than 50,000 meals to Palm Beach County Food Bank partner agencies and neighbors struggling with food insecurity!

The telethon ran from the early morning hours into the late evening with donors supporting digitally through online giving links.

Every $1 supporters gave, helped the Palm Beach County Food Bank provide 5 meals to children who cannot access school meals over summer break, to seniors on fixed incomes, and to families living paycheck to paycheck - our neighbors in need.

Your support makes a difference in our community. No donation is too small. Thank you to everyone who supported our mission of alleviating hunger during the telethon, and a sincere thanks to CBS 12 News for their time, coverage, and effort in ending food insecurity.

Read more about the telethon and WPEC here .

Cooked Dried White Beans (1 of 2)

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Thu, 22 Jun 2023 21:02:31 GMT

Asparagus Soup

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Thu, 22 Jun 2023 19:02:42 GMT

White Bean Salad (2 of 2)

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Thu, 22 Jun 2023 19:02:00 GMT

Banana Almond Oats

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Thu, 22 Jun 2023 17:19:38 GMT

Banana Oatmeal Pancakes

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Wed, 21 Jun 2023 18:09:06 GMT

Breakfast Potatoes and Turkey Sausage

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Wed, 21 Jun 2023 18:07:14 GMT

Chickpea and Brown Rice Soup

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Wed, 21 Jun 2023 18:03:43 GMT

Cornflake Crusted Baked Chicken

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Wed, 21 Jun 2023 18:01:56 GMT

Garlic and Spinach Pasta

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Fri, 16 Jun 2023 19:46:33 GMT

Creamy Yogurt Dill Sauce

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Fri, 16 Jun 2023 19:46:28 GMT

Garlic Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Thu, 15 Jun 2023 20:15:57 GMT

Instant Creamy Potato Soup

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Thu, 15 Jun 2023 18:42:38 GMT

Lentil Sloppy Joe

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Thu, 15 Jun 2023 18:38:06 GMT

Pasta with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Thu, 15 Jun 2023 18:38:03 GMT

Protein Pancakes

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Thu, 15 Jun 2023 18:38:01 GMT

Roasted Almonds

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Thu, 15 Jun 2023 18:37:54 GMT

Spicy Roasted Broccoli

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Thu, 15 Jun 2023 18:37:51 GMT

Sweet Bean Salad

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Thu, 15 Jun 2023 18:37:49 GMT

Turkey and rice soup

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Thu, 15 Jun 2023 18:37:39 GMT

Inaugural Meal Build in the News

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Mon, 05 Jun 2023 21:26:26 GMT

2023 Meal Build Food Drive participant Suffolk Construction - West Palm Beach, May 2023

Suffolk Construction took action to alleviate hunger by creating a canned structure that will provide more than 3,300 meals for our Inaugural Meal Build Food Drive!

As America's Contractor, we are honored Suffolk dedicated themselves to make their impressive structure a reality to benefit our neighbors in need. The red, white, and blue design of the structure symbolizes Suffolk as America's Contractor and honors Memorial Day.

Over 4,300 cans, weighing about 4,000 pounds, were needed to build the 3D model used to plan. Wood was added to nearly every layer of the flag to maintain stability. A team of 11 constructed the flag and base over the course of 10 hours!

Stop by Suffolk on Clematis in Downtown West Palm Beach to take a look and share your pictures by tagging the Food Bank and Suffolk. The structure is even more incredible in person.

AGENCY TOOLBOX

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Wed, 24 May 2023 17:37:29 GMT

These are the resources you need to help combat food insecurity in your community.

Handbook
General Info Forms : Please communicate any changes in distribution days/hours or address.
Contact Update Forms : Please communicate any changes in your agency’s contacts.
Distribution Logs: Distribution logs must be signed by pantry clients during each distribution.
Monthly distribution sheet
Sign-in logs
SAMPLE
Pest Control Log : Partner agencies must maintain an appropriate regular pest control system.
Temperature Log : Storage temperatures should be recorded daily.
Food Dating flyers:
Reading expiration dates
Identifying spoiled food
Monthly Report : Partner agencies are required to enter their monthly statistics by the first (1st) of every month.

USDA TOOLBOX

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Tue, 23 May 2023 17:43:34 GMT

These are the documents you need as a USDA agency.

Eligibility Form: must be completed and signed by pantry clients to determine client's TEFAP eligibility prier to receiving USDA Commodities.
SAMPLE Eligibility Form
English Eligibility Form
Spanish Eligibility Form
Creole Eligibility Form
Portuguese Eligibility Form
Russian Eligibility Form
Ukrainian Eligibility Form
TEFAP Distribution Questions : to determine client’s TEFAP eligibility during each distribution.
Agency Attestation sheet: must be completed following each distribution to summarize the total TEFAP clients served.
Sample Attestation Sheet
English Attestation Sheet
Spanish Attestation Sheet
Creole Attestation Sheet
Inventory Log :
EXAMPLE
Commodity Loss Report : Complete ONLY in case of a USDA commodity loss.
Distribution Forms: The use of distribution forms are a PBCFB requirement. The client's refusal of completing the PBCFB Distribution log, or any digital sign-in methods will not impact them from receiving USDA commodities during the distribution as long as an Eligibility form is completed.
Monthly Distribution Sheet - USDA
PBCFB Distribution log - USDA
Temperature Log : Storage temperatures should be recorded daily.
Civil Rights Training: All staff and volunteers must complete an annual civil rights training.
Civil Rights Training PP (English)
Civil Rights Training Log
And Justice for All Poster 2019 : The poster must be posted in a public area that is accessible to clients during distributions.
Additional Activities Sign (English, Spanish, Creole)
USDA Notice of Beneficiary Rights - Memo
Proselytism Memo (Rules for All Organizations)
Misappropriation Notice Flyer (English, Spanish, Creole)
TEFAP Grievance Form AD-3027
Monthly USDA Report : USDA agencies are required to submit their monthly report by the seventh (7th) of every month.

FOOD SAFETY

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Mon, 22 May 2023 17:55:11 GMT

The following resources will assist you in the proper handling of food.

Palm Beach County Food Bank (PBCFB) takes food safety very seriously. Below are some frequently asked questions we receive about food safety:

Where can I get food safety certified?

It's easy to get food safety certified online! The two online classes that we recommend for our partner agencies are the National Registry of Food Safety Professionals and 360training.com . PBCFB will accept a passing food handler certification from either of these Florida Department of Health (FLDOH)-approved providers , as well as other reputable food safety test providers.

Where can I find out more about food recalls?

There are two federal agencies that are tasked with keeping our food supply safe: the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The USDA oversees food safety for meat, fish, poultry, and egg products. All other food product safety is overseen by the FDA. You can sign up to receive food recall alerts from FoodSafety.gov by clicking HERE .

PBCFB communicates with our partner agencies when we become aware of recalls that could affect our partner agencies.

Why does our agency receive food that is past its expiration date?

PBCFB follows food safety guidelines to make sure that the food we distribute is safe to consume. Many people are not aware that the best-by, sell-by and other expiration dates found on food products are actually about a food product's quality, not safety. The only expiration dates that must be followed for safety are the expiration dates found on baby food.

PBCFB sorts our food according to food safety guidelines for donated food recommended by the USDA. You can view our user-friendly guide HERE .

Where can I find out more about expiration, best-by, and sell-by dates?

FoodSafety.gov has a great website with lots of food safety information as well as an app called FoodKeeper that you can download to your phone.

Food Safety Certification
National Registry of Food Safety Professionals
360training.com
Food Recall Information
U.S. Department of Agriculture
Recalls
Palm Beach County Food Bank Food Dating Guide
Food Product Dates Guide

Nourished, Winter 2023

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Wed, 25 Jan 2023 21:46:10 GMT

Breaking Ground

In collaboration with United Way of Palm Beach County and Palm Beach County, transformational, groundbreaking growth is in store this year for the Palm Beach County Food Bank with the hunger relief expansion project underway!

On May 2022, we were awarded funding to expand the capacity of the food bank's food distribution for our partner schools, church's, shelters, and nonprofits. The food bank expansion project will also include culinary job training, a produce processing facility, additional storage space, and a larger volunteer center. By August 2022, the food bank secured the warehouse space next to our current facility. At that time, we began working with architects, engineers, subcontractors, and the design team at Cheney Brothers to create a facility to meet the needs of our community.

Following permit approvals, we hope construction will start in the Spring of 2023!

Source: Stephen Boruff, A1A Architects + Planners, Inc.

157,000

Palm Beach County

neighbors are

food-insecure

43,000

of which are children

Source: Feeding America Map the Meal Gap

CEO's Desk

Dear Neighbor,

Happy New Year, and best wishes for 2023! After receiving a handwritten note last month from a generous donor who paid a good deed forward by donating to the food bank, I reflected on why paying it forward matters.

Paying it forward is doing a good deed for someone else instead of paying someone back for a good deed. Maya Angelou captured the impact of

paying it forward when she wrote, “I’ve learned that you shouldn’t go through life with a catcher’s mitt on both hands; you need to be able to throw something back.” When we give back, we are changing someone’s

circumstance. We’re all neighbors living together, but it takes a village of dedicated volunteers, donors, and supporters to ensure everyone in our community receives the food necessary to survive as the need for food

continues to rise in today’s evolving economy.

With your generous support, we are accomplishing our mission of

alleviating hunger for over 157,000 children, families, seniors, and neighbors who struggle in Palm Beach County. Together, we achieved a

record-breaking distribution of more than 11 million meals in 2022! Thank you for living generously and inspiring compassion here at home.

Will you “throw something back” to support our expanding nutrition

programs, such as Childhood Hunger Initiatives, Groceries for Seniors,

Benefits Outreach, and Partner Marketplace? We’re all better when we pay it forward.

Together, we nourish,

Jamie Kendall, CEO

The Club at Ibis 13th Annual Food Drive

Thank you for all your support, Ibis! Richard, Ibis resident, shared that food drives were inspired by two residents, John and Hal. “As a community, we’re motivated to improve the number of pounds we collect year after year. It’s amazing to be able to give back to the community. Anyone can do it. It’s simple to get started.”

Volunteer

Volunteers help us with food packing for our nutrition programs, food categorizing, packaging rice bags, produce sorting, and more!

Benefits Outreach Program

John

“I’m 66 years old and homeless…I sleep wherever I can find a place. I was worried about losing my food stamps because I need those to eat. One of my buddies told me to go to ‘St. Ann Place’ so the food bank could help me with my application. My food stamps are good now. Thank you to Mr. Riquet for treating me with dignity and respect.”

The Benefits Outreach Program assists individuals and families with applying for various applications, including Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, formerly “food stamps”),

Cash Assistance, and Medicaid.

We are one of only seven organizations in Florida that provide the DCF required federal food relief interview.

This service is free of charge to the community.

Partner Marketplace

Laurel

I referred clients to Arms of Hope, and then I lost my job with the government during COVID. That’s when I started thinking about coming to Arms of Hope…maybe about two months ago…that’s the first time I came for myself.

Since I’ve started coming here, I notice that people seem more depressed and anxious…the need is incredible. You see a wide range of people coming to get food. Many of them are highly educated…formerly middle-class, but they come here because they can no longer afford to feed themselves.

30th Annual Project Thanksgiving

Thanks to the generous contributions of viewers and local sponsors, the 30th Annual ‘Project Thanksgiving’ hosted by WPEC - CBS 12 and United Way of Palm Beach County raised funds for holiday gift cards to benefit local families in need. As the recipient of the fundraiser for the 11th year, the food bank was honored to grant 44,540 ten-dollar gift cards to 133 Partner Agencies to supplement 165,540 our neighbors’ Thanksgiving dinners.

Events

Empty Bowls in the Gardens and Empty Bowls Delray Beach

In September 2022, the food bank held its inaugural ‘Empty Bowls in the Gardens’ fundraiser with Downtown Palm Beach Gardens. With more than 200 community guests in attendance, this event was a huge success and a delightful treat for the Northern Palm Beach County community. Guests had the opportunity to taste a variety of soups donated by local restaurants.

We held ‘Empty Bowls Delray Beach’ on December 10th at the beautiful Trinity Delray Lutheran Church and School. More than 350 guests enjoyed the taste of 30-plus soups donated by local restaurants and chefs. Old School Bakery provided delicious fresh baked rolls for all to enjoy.

Collectively, both ‘Empty Bowls’ events raised $113,510 to provide 567,550 meals to our community in need. We are truly grateful to all our restaurant partners and event sponsors who made these fundraisers possible. Our team looks forward to another fantastic year of alleviating hunger.

Day of Giving Telethon

On December 13th, 2022, The Palm Beach County Food Bank held its ‘3rd Annual Day of Giving Telethon’ hosted by our wonderful partners at WPBF News Channel 25. With the donations received this year, we were able to provide 185,000 meals to neighbors.

Join us on February 17, 2023 , for our ‘10th

Annual Empty Bowls Palm Beach’ at the Church of Bethesda-by-the-Sea. We are excited to host this event on-site in the beautiful and tranquil church garth.

For more information, to sponsor,

or to purchase tickets, visit

Employee Spotlight

Shane

Shane, our Lead WarehouseAssociate, is now a ‘Certified Forklift Trainer!’

Congratulations!

We’re thankful for your dedicated one and a half years at the food bank.

Pay It Forward

The holiday season is a season of giving at the food bank, and 2022 was a wonderful example of our community’s generosity. A donation, along with a handwritten note, arrived at the food bank in December.

In the note, our donor explained that after pulling over along the side of the road to check on a flat tire, a kind passer-by stopped to help change his tire. He offered payment for the aid, but the passer-by wouldn’t accept it. In that moment, the generous donor decided to ‘pay it forward’ to the food bank with a $1,000 donation!

‘Pay it forward’ means to pass along kindness. Join us by paying it forward in 2023. Make a one-time donation or become a

‘Nourishing Neighbor’ (recurring donor) at

5th Grader Helping Fight Hunger in PBC

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Tue, 27 Dec 2022 19:50:13 GMT

Scarlett - WPTV Interview on December 22, 2022

With the help of her parents and community, Scarlett collected 2,853 pounds of food. That's equal to 2,377 meals for our neighbors in need!

Start your food & fund drive like Scarlett today!

Inaugural Empty Bowls in the Gardens

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Fri, 07 Oct 2022 16:40:33 GMT

News Coverage for Empty Bowls in the Gardens 2022

Thank you WPTV, WPBF, CBS12, Florida Weekly, Palm Beach Post, WLRN, WFLA for your support.

Emergency Resources

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Mon, 26 Sep 2022 20:54:48 GMT

In the event of emergency (e.g. hurricane, tropical storm, flooding), the Palm Beach County Food Bank will close until it is deemed safe to reopen. For closure updates, please visit our social media, website home page, and/or email listserv.

Below is a list of federal, state, and county resources available for disaster assistance.

How Food Waste Contributes to Our Carbon Footprint

Tue, 30 Aug 2022 20:58:28 GMT

Have you ever considered all of the energy that goes into producing the food that you eat?

By Avery Cecere

Have you ever considered all of the energy that goes into producing the food that you eat? Over one-third of all food produced in the US is never even eaten. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) data shows that food waste is the single most common material disposed of in the U.S. (USDA, 2022). Think of how many times you have been eating a meal at home and couldn’t manage to finish your plate, or the amount of times you forgot about food in the fridge and let it go bad. Now imagine all the people eating in restaurants, schools and grocery stores doing the exact same thing. It’s happening all around the world! The small amounts of food that we toss in the garbage does not seem like a big deal on its own but it adds up fast, and is left to rot in our landfills. The food rotting in our landfills is releasing methane, a potent greenhouse gas, into the atmosphere and polluting our planet.

We often think of food being wasted as a social concern – that wasted food could be feeding millions of families. The matter is not only a social concern but also a major environmental issue.

What is a carbon footprint?

A carbon footprint is the total amount of greenhouse gases (specifically carbon dioxide) emitted by an individual, group, event, service, etc.

Typically when we think of our carbon-footprint, we reflect on how often we recycle, how often we drive our cars, or how much electricity we use in our homes. We usually are not considering other habits such as how much food are we wasting?

Have you ever thought of the steps that took place in order to get your food to your table? What happened to get that burger onto your plate? Did you know a 1/3 pound burger requires about 660 gallons of water to make? (National Geographic) When we waste our food, we waste all of the energy and water it takes to grow, harvest, process, transport and package the food. All of the activities that take place to produce food, create greenhouse gas emissions that harm the Earth. By making a thoughtful effort to reduce your food waste, you can reduce your carbon footprint and help make a positive global impact.

What can you do to help reduce food waste at home?

According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), each year consumers waste about $1,500 of food per family of four. Being mindful about food waste prevention can help you save time and money!

1. Shop with Intention

Many times people buy more than they can eat. Try to make a list of items before going grocery shopping, and stick to your list. This will help you avoid impulsive purchasing decisions and focus on buying only what you need.

Also, make an effort to use up all of your food from your last visit to the store, before buying more.

2. Purchase Ugly Fruits

If possible, purchase “ugly” fruits or vegetables. “Ugly” produce is produce that has physical imperfections but is perfectly safe and nutritious to eat. People often try to pick out the best looking produce at the store, so the “ugly” produce gets left behind and often thrown out! By purchasing ugly fruits and vegetables, you can reduce food waste by preventing nutritious produce from ending up in a landfill.

3. Donate

If you have more food at home than you need, consider donating your extra supply of packaged foods to the Palm Beach County Food Bank. Read more about USDA food expiration guidelines here.

4. Use your freezer!

If in doubt, freeze your food! Freezing food is a great way to preserve fresh food items until you are ready to eat them. You can freeze excess produce, leftovers, and meals to prevent them from going bad and ending up in the trash.

What is the Palm Beach County Food Bank doing to reduce Food Waste and Food Loss?

Often times restaurants, farmers, or supermarkets have extra food that is safe to eat. The Palm Beach County Food Bank partners with farmers, restaurants, retailers, grocers and other food service companies to recover food before it goes to waste. We redistribute food to save it from ending up in landfills while also strengthening food systems.

How we produce food today, creates a lasting impact on our environment. We can all be more aware of what we are eating and how our choices affect those around us as well as our planet!

Eating Water Up: The Water “Footprint” of Food (nationalgeographic.com)

Consumers | USDA

Food Waste and its Links to Greenhouse Gases and Climate Change | USDA

Nourished, Summer 2022

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Tue, 23 Aug 2022 21:45:51 GMT

2022 Back-to-School Food Drive

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Wed, 03 Aug 2022 15:17:53 GMT

News media coverage of 2nd Annual One Can, Two Can. Who Can? You Can End Hunger! Protein Back-to-School Food Drive

Stamp Out Hunger 2022

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Tue, 24 May 2022 19:12:31 GMT

WPBF and Florida Weekly coverage of National Association of Letter Carriers Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive 2022 | May 12, 2022

Lady in Red Gala Proceeds to PBCFB

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Tue, 10 May 2022 13:27:03 GMT

Coverage by Palm Beach Society, Summer 2022

Inflation putting strain on Palm Beach County, Treasure Coast food banks

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Fri, 15 Apr 2022 17:15:07 GMT

'I feel like we're walking into another crisis,' Palm Beach County Food Bank CEO says

Students and Food Scarcity

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Fri, 15 Apr 2022 16:45:44 GMT

CBS12 coverage | April 5-6, 2022

Food insecurity a growing problem in PBC

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Fri, 15 Apr 2022 14:47:31 GMT

CBS12 Coverage | April 4, 2022

9th Annual Empty Bowls Palm Beach News Coverage

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Thu, 31 Mar 2022 18:26:21 GMT

2022 Empty Bowls Palm Beach raised $88,000 towards hunger relief efforts

Food Banks' Supply Chain Disruptions

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Tue, 29 Mar 2022 21:12:48 GMT

Food banks see empty shelves and higher demand due to supply chain shortages - CBS 12 News

PBC Zip Code Top 3 Most Charitable in U.S.

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Tue, 29 Mar 2022 21:08:14 GMT

Palm Beach County zip code named #3 most charitable in country

Nourished, Winter 2022

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Fri, 18 Mar 2022 21:36:26 GMT

Palm Beach County Food Bank unveils 53-foot semi-truck as part of its Lois' Food4Kids Program

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Thu, 17 Mar 2022 20:38:25 GMT

Notables | The Palm Beach Post | Monday, January 31, 2022

Underwritten by Manalapan resident, Lois Pope, the new truck will advance food pick-up and deliveries to help hungry Palm Beach County children.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Slatkow & Husak Public Relations

Lauren Eissey

561.797.1413 or Lauren@SlatkowHusak.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

PALM BEACH COUNTY FOOD BANK UNVEILS 53-FOOT SEMI TRUCK AS PART OF ITS LOIS’ FOOD4KIDS PROGRAM

Underwritten by Manalapan resident, Lois Pope, the new truck will advance food pick-up and deliveries to help hungry Palm Beach County children

(Lake Worth Beach, Fla.) – During the holidays, the Hess Toy commercials are ubiquitous on TV with their iconic jungle: “The Hess Truck’s Back and it’s Better than Ever.”

To Palm Beach County’s children in need, a new truck is indeed here, but it’s not a toy. It is, however, better than ever. That’s because it is a lifesaver for the many thousands of underserved schoolchildren who don’t always have access to healthy, nutritious meals.

Thanks to a generous $250,000 donation from the Manalapan-based philanthropist and humanitarian Lois Pope, the Palm Beach County Food Bank now has a 53-foot refrigerated semi-trailer, which will greatly enhance the Bank’s ability to deliver meals and pick up food for families facing food insecurity.

The new truck was christened on Monday, December 13, in a way that was most appropriate and meaningful to Mrs. Pope, the PBCFB, and local families in need: it was filled with holiday turkeys and food bags that were distributed to 150 children at the Florence De George Boys & Girls Club. The eye-catching, photo-wrapped truck features Mrs. Pope and several children from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County who receive assistance from Lois’ Food4Kids program.

“No child should ever have to wish for food as a Christmas or holiday present,” said Mrs. Pope. In fact, it’s hard to imagine in Palm Beach County that there are families who dread the holidays because they mean time away from school when children do not have access to free and reduced lunches. So, I couldn’t think of a better present to give these families than a truck that will greatly increase the PBCFB’s ability to make sure children have access to meals at the holidays and all year round.”

Lois’ Food4Kids is a year-round program serving thousands of children at schools, camps, libraries and local Boys and Girls Clubs. It was endowed through a $1 million donation from Mrs. Pope in 2020 in response to the tremendous increase in families facing hunger and food insecurity because of the pandemic and virtual schooling.

“The excitement and joy that came from this reveal was just so contagious,” said Jamie Kendall, PBCFB CEO. “The generosity from Mrs. Pope completely brought these children the holiday spirit that they deserve. I know the addition of this truck will elevate our distribution and have a positive impact on reaching our hungry neighbors. Please make sure to wave when you see this truck on local roads!”

To help Mrs. Pope and the PBCFB continue to provide such meals, visit Lois’ Food4Kids at www.lifeedu.org or pbcfoodbank.org/programs or contact pbcfoodbank.org.

Palm Beach County Food Bank hosts Sixth Annual Empty Bowls Delray Beach

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Thu, 17 Mar 2022 20:26:42 GMT

The popular grassroots event gestures to the 181,000 hungry residents in Palm Beach County.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Slatkow & Husak Public Relations

Lauren Eissey

561.278.0850 or Lauren@SlatkowHusak.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

PALM BEACH COUNTY FOOD BANK HOSTS SIXTH ANNUAL EMPTY BOWLS DELRAY BEACH

The popular grassroots event gestures to the 181,000 hungry residents in Palm Beach County

(Lake Worth Beach, Fla.) – Cooked to perfection is Palm Beach County Food Bank’s (PBCFB) Sixth Annual Empty Bowls event returning to Delray Beach. On Saturday, December 4, the event welcomes the community to enjoy a simple meal of soup, bread and water reminding guests to eat simply, so others may simply eat. From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., attendees are encouraged to grab a spoon for a modest meal in-person or via drive through in support of PBCFB at Trinity Delray Lutheran Church and School.

The national grassroots event prompts people to recognize all the empty bowls in the community, and specifically, the one-in-six people in Palm Beach County who are food insecure. This year’s event chairs include Stephanie Dodge and Billy Himmelrich.

“This feel-good event always leaves supporters wanting to come back for seconds,” said Jamie Kendall, PBCFB CEO. “People are ready to serve and are amazed to learn how many of our neighbors in Palm Beach County experience hunger silently. It’s a humble reminder to look up from our own dinner plate to see how we can provide others with a nutritious and substantial meal. ”

Old School Bakery will provide rustic bread and 30 local chefs will donate savory, signature soups, all served by local community leaders. All money raised by purchased tickets will support the nonprofit in its mission toward hunger relief.

Platinum sponsors for the event include Trinity Delray Lutheran Church and School, Old School Bakery, The Garchik Family Foundation, The Dodge Family, Shelly and Billy Himmelrich, Delray Magazine, Pechter Family Foundation and Brenda Medore and Leanne Adair. Sponsorship opportunities are still available at pbcfoodbank.org/delray-beach-empty-bowls.

The PBCFB procures food from grocery stores, farmers, food distributors, wholesalers and other sources and provides it to almost 200 local community partners, including food pantries, soup kitchens and residential housing programs. Palm Beach County Food Bank programs reach families, children and seniors, and connect those in need to available benefits and resources. Partner agencies distribute the products received, including culturally appropriate food and necessities like paper towels and diapers. This process ensures families have access to food when they need it most.

Participate in Empty Bowls and leave with a full heart! To purchase a ticket, please visit pbcfoodbank.org/delray-beach-empty-bowls or for further details, please contact PBCFB at 561-670- 2518.

Palm Beach County Food Bank Appoints Five New Board Members

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Thu, 17 Mar 2022 19:37:38 GMT

New members bring robust backgrounds and vision to alleviate hunger in Palm Beach County

PRESS CONTACT:

Slatkow & Husak Public Relations

Lauren Eissey

Lauren@SlatkowHusak.com or 561-797-1413

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

PALM BEACH COUNTY FOOD BANK APPOINTS FIVE NEW BOARD MEMBERS

New members bring robust backgrounds and vision to alleviate hunger in Palm Beach County

(Lake Worth Beach, Fla.) – The Palm Beach County Food Bank (PBCFB) has added new faces to its esteemed Board of Directors who are passionate about turning hunger into hope. According to Marti LaTour, PBCFB Board Chairman, the Food Bank has elected Bob O’Connell, Eileen P. Acello, Jorge Avellana, Susan Rabinowitz and South Bay Mayor Joe Kyles to help hundreds of thousands of foodinsecure residents in Palm Beach County. The new appointees will support the nonprofit’s mission “to alleviate hunger in Palm Beach County” by providing access to nutritious and substantial food to hungry neighbors.

O’Connell and his wife Christine reside in Delray Beach, Fla. Prior to his career, he earned his bachelor’s degree in accounting from Providence College and a master’s degree from Dowling College. O’Connell provides nearly 50 years of experience having served in director, vice president and executive roles with the Internal Revenue Service, PwC Consulting and Tyco International Inc. Other accolades include being a Vietnam veteran, serving as a first lieutenant in the U.S. Army and teaching as an adjunct accounting professor at Worcester State College.

Acello and her husband John reside in West Palm Beach, Fla. with their three children. She has a bachelor’s degree in food marketing and a master’s degree in training and organizational development from Saint Joseph’s University. Her career path has led her to serve as a marketing professional and educator for more than 25 years with a specialty in the food and allied industry. Today, she works fulltime as a professor in Florida Atlantic University’s marketing department while also consulting for Acello & Associates, LLC. Prior to joining the PBCFB board, Acello held the role of director of development and recruitment for the Academy of Food Marketing with Saint Joseph’s University.

Jorge Avellana currently lives in Palm Springs, Fla., however, hails from Havana, Cuba and arrived in the U.S. at 14-years-old. He received his bachelor’s degree in accounting and management from Fairleigh Dickinson University and went on to work for IBM for nearly 15 years specializing in accounting, manufacturing and scheduling new products. Avellana is active in the Hispanic community where he currently serves as the executive director for the Hispanic Human Resources Council, on the board of directors of the Cuban American Club of PBC and the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of PBC to name a few. His lifework centers around providing equality, freedom and opportunity for all men and women.

Susan Rabinowitz and her husband Paul live in West Palm Beach, Fla. with their four children. She has a bachelor’s degree in finance from Florida Atlantic University and holds more than 25 years of experience delivering customized financial solutions to meet the specific needs of her clients. As Bank of America’s Mid-Atlantic senior vice president and credit risk executive, Rabinowitz is instrumental in advising clients in healthcare, education and nonprofit industries. Additionally, she is involved in organizations such as the Literacy Coalition of Palm Beach County and promotes equality and inclusion by mentoring women-owned businesses, acting as a LGBT ally and supporting the Vital Voices Global Ambassador program.

South Bay Mayor Joe Kyles has laid his home roots in South Florida since 1970. He graduated from Lake Shore Junior High in Belle Glade and advanced into vocational training at North Technical School. Kyles comes from a decorated 20-year career as a division supervisor with the Okeelanta Sugar Corporation and a 20-year career as a labor negotiator with the International Association of Machinist and Aerospace Workers. He is the recipient of several community and humanitarian awards and is dedicated to improving the quality of life for South Bay residents as mayor and chair deacon of Mount Calvary Missionary Church.

“The pandemic has put families and their food security in a more vulnerable position than ever before,” said LaTour. “However, our new and existing board members give us the utmost confidence on delivering practical and cost-efficient solutions to food assistance. The diverse industry experience that they bring to our Food Bank is a great asset to the evolving needs in every hungry household.”

Historically, the Palm Beach County Food Bank provided access to nutritious food for more than 200,000 hungry Palm Beach County residents every month. Since COVID-19 disrupted the county’s economy, the demand for the Food Bank’s services has tripled. While pre-COVID 19 distributions averaged close to five million pounds per year, the current facility is now distributing close to 1.5 million pounds of food per month. The Palm Beach County Food Bank procures food from grocery stores, farmers, food distributors, wholesalers and other sources and provides it to almost 200 local community partners.

For more information about PBCFB, or Hunger Action Month, please visit pbcfoodbank.org. For further details on board members, please contact PBCFB at 561-670-2518.

Palm Beach County Food Bank to Expand Weekend Food for Kids Program with $1.6 Million Donation From Stephan and Christine Schwarzman

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Thu, 17 Mar 2022 19:14:05 GMT

April 22, 2021 - Governor Ron DeSantis Helps Annouce Gift, Tours Newly Completed Warehouse

PRESS CONTACT:

Slatkow & Husak Public Relations

Jennifer Brooks

PBCFB@SlatkowHusak.com or 561-278-0850 x 3

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

PALM BEACH COUNTY FOOD BANK TO EXPAND WEEKEND “FOOD FOR KIDS” PROGRAM WITH $1.6 MILLION DONATION FROM STEPHEN AND CHRISTINE SCHWARZMAN

Governor Ron DeSantis Helps Announce Gift, Tours Newly Completed Warehouse

(Lake Worth Beach, Fla.) – During a press conference led by Gov. Ron DeSantis today, the Palm Beach County Food Bank announced it will expand its “Food For Kids” program providing weekend meals for Palm Beach County School students and their families thanks to a $1.6 million gift from part-time Palm Beach residents Stephen and Christine Schwarzman. The Schwarzman’s gift alone will provide at least 1.5 million meals to students and their families over two years. Palm Beach County operates the 10th largest school district in the U.S., with more than 60 percent of school-age children eligible for free or reduced-price meals. The Food 4 Kids program is designed to help these students and their families fill nutritional gaps when they leave the classroom for the weekend.

This gift is in addition to a recent $500,000 donation from the Schwarzmans to close out the Food Bank’s capital campaign which doubled the capacity of its warehouse and distribution center. Gov. DeSantis, along with other local VIPs, toured the newly completed Food Bank facility.

“We’ve seen firsthand the incredible impact of the Palm Beach County Food Bank and are pleased to help expand this important program for schoolchildren and their families,” said Stephen Schwarzman, Chairman, CEO and Co-founder of Blackstone. “I believe that education is the passport to a better life, and I would not be where I am today without my own public school education. But students can only experience these benefits if basic needs like access to nutritional meals are met.”

This expanded weekend food program builds on the Food Bank’s current Lois’ Food 4 Kids program, already in place at more than a dozen schools across Palm Beach County. Philanthropist Lois Pope donated $1 million in April 2020 to support the initiative that was renamed in recognition of her generosity. This new gift will expand the program to more schools in a graduated process. If the Food Bank’s full $3 million fundraising goal is met, it will make it possible to provide meals in every elementary school in the county.

“This incredibly generous seed gift positions us well on our way to meet our $3 million fundraising goal to ensure the program is in every Palm Beach County Title 1 school and that it has sustainability to serve as a safety net for years to come,” said James Greco, Vice Chair of the Palm Beach County Food Bank. “We are grateful to Stephen and Christine for their generosity, and we hope other members of our community are able to support our efforts so we can provide this service to every student in need. This gift highlights the impact that private donations can have on charitable organizations, especially during a time of tight government budgets.”

“COVID-19 has impacted families in Palm Beach County in numerous ways, and the need for food assistance is now greater than ever before.” said Jamie Kendall, CEO of the Food Bank. Children are often the most impacted from food insecurity. For some of them, the breakfast and lunch they receive at school may be the only meals they are eating each day. Weekends are especially hard without access to enough food and thousands of children go to bed hungry.” “We have analyzed the schools with the most urgent need and will start ramping up the program in these schools first. We call upon the community to grow the Schwarzman’s seed gift to help us sustain this program and meet our goal of $3.0 million.”

“We know that hungry children have a more difficult time learning and reaching their full potential, and for that reason the District created the Hunger Relief Collaboration Team (HRCT),” said Allison Monbleau, Director School Food Service Department. "These efforts truly support the District’s Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child (WSCC) culture and we thank those organizations such as the Palm Beach County Food Bank who provide these much-needed programs.”

Palm Beach County Food Bank provided access to nutritious food for more than 200,000 hungry Palm Beach County residents. Since COVID-19 disrupted the county’s economy, the demand for the Food Bank’s services has tripled. While pre-COVID 19 distributions averaged close to 5 million pounds per year, the Food Bank is now distributing close to 1.5 million pounds of food per month.

The Palm Beach County Food Bank procures food from grocery stores, farmers, food distributors, wholesalers and other sources and provides it to almost 200 local community partners, including food pantries, soup kitchens and residential housing programs. Palm Beach County Food Bank programs reach families, school children and seniors, and connect those in need to available benefits and resources, including culturally appropriate food and necessities like paper towels and diapers. This process ensures families have access to food when they need it most.

For more information or to donate to the Palm Beach County Food Bank, visit pbcfoodbank.org.

Palm Beach County Food Bank Opens New, Fully-funded Facility

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Thu, 17 Mar 2022 18:52:43 GMT

March 16, 2021- New Building Will Double Capacity to Serve Community

PRESS CONTACT:

Slatkow & Husak Public Relations

Jennifer Brooks

PBCFB@SlatkowHusak.com or 561-278-0850 x 3

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

PALM BEACH COUNTY FOOD BANK OPENS NEW, FULLY FUNDED FACILITY

New Building Will Double Capacity to Serve Community

(Lake Worth, Fla.) – Dozens of community leaders and VIPs attended the Palm Beach County Food Bank’s ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the move to a new, fully funded warehouse and distribution facility. Under the leadership of co-chairs Debbie Pucillo and Rev. Cecie Titcomb, the organization’s $3 million “Grow with Us” capital campaign supported the Palm Beach County nonprofit’s move to double its capacity to serve the community. Attendees enjoyed light bites and tours at the socially distanced ceremony.

The Palm Beach County Food Bank procures food from grocery stores, farmers, food distributors, wholesalers and other sources and provides it to almost 200 local community partners, including food pantries, soup kitchens and residential housing programs. Palm Beach County Food Bank programs reach families, school children and seniors, and connect those in need to available benefits and resources. The Palm Beach County Food Bank provides partner agencies culturally appropriate food and necessities like paper towels and diapers, and this process ensures families have access to food when they need it.

“It is hard to appreciate that one in six people living in the county do not know where they will get their next meal,” said Jamie Kendall, CEO of the Food Bank. “The pandemic has exposed just how easy it is for people to become food insecure. We are grateful to all of our donors for the ability to serve more people in need, such as Florida Power and Light for their $100,000 donation that will allow us to have brand new transportation to help our partner agencies.”

Donor Stephen Schwarzman toured the facility ahead of the ribbon cutting ceremony. His $500,000 gift closed out the “Grow With Us” capital campaign and was the organization’s largest single donation.

The Palm Beach County Food Bank traces its origins to a one-truck operation. Nine years ago, thanks to the support of key funders and the County, the Food Bank moved to a three-building facility in Lantana. Now, located at 701 Boutwell Road in Lake Worth, the new facility totals 28,000 square-feet in a single building with 30-foot-high ceilings, allowing more room to stack pallets and thus a more efficient use of space.

Historically, the Palm Beach County Food Bank provided access to nutritious food for more than 200,000 hungry Palm Beach County residents every month. Since COVID-19 disrupted the county’s economy, the demand for the Food Bank’s services has tripled. While pre-COVID 19 distributions averaged close to 5 million pounds per year, the Lantana facility is currently distributing close to 1.5 million pounds of food per month. Kendall says the new location offers the nonprofit the ability to meet the increased demand from Palm Beach County neighbors who find themselves needing access to food for their families.

For more information about food distributions, volunteer opportunities and other Palm Beach County Food Bank programming, visit pbcfoodbank.org. To donate to the Food Bank, call Ellen Vaughan, Director of Development and Philanthropy at 561-670-2518.

Palm Beach Empty Bowls Benefit Raises More Than $100,000

andrea@pbcfoodbank.org (Andrea Rendon) — Fri, 11 Mar 2022 22:14:34 GMT

March 8, 2021 - 8th Annual event at Bethesda-by-the-Sea benefits the Palm Beach County Food Bank

PRESS CONTACT:

Slatkow & Husak Public Relations

Kelly Husak or Jennifer Brooks

Jennifer@SlatkowHusak.com or 561-278-0850 ext. 3

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

PALM BEACH EMPTY BOWLS BENEFIT RAISES MORE THAN $100,000

8th Annual event at Bethesda-by-the-Sea benefits the Palm Beach County Food Bank

(Palm Beach, FL.) – The record-breaking 8 th Annual Palm Beach Empty Bowls event raised $105,263 for the Palm Beach County Food Bank to help the thousands of hungry residents in our community. More than 650 attendees purchased soup at the February 26th drive-through event at The Church of Bethesdaby-the-Sea in Palm Beach. Chairpersons were Cordella and Rick Miessau.

“Cordella and I are thrilled that so many neighbors came out to support the mission,” said Rick Miessau. “The pandemic has exposed how easy it is for people to become food insecure, and it is hard to appreciate that one in six people living in Palm Beach County do not know where they will get their next meal. That is why we were honored to lead this event to help alleviate hunger in our own backyard.”

Empty Bowls is a national grassroots event that raises money for hunger relief. The unique event invited the public to “eat simply, so others can simply eat.” Guests received a basic meal of fresh baked bread from Old School Bakery, signature soups donated from local chefs, and water, all served by community leaders and local celebrities at this year’s reimagined drive-through pickup.

“We are elated with this year’s turnout given the pandemic circumstances,” said Jamie Kendall, CEO of the Palm Beach County Food Bank. “We could not address this increased need without community partners like Bethesda-by-the-Sea and the restaurants and volunteers making this event possible. For the past eight years, Bethesda-by-the-Sea has underwritten the event, which has raised more than $600,000 to support our mission.”

The Rev. Burl Salmon, Associate for Christian Formation, Pastoral Care and Outreach at The Church of Bethesda-by-the-Sea, hosted a cooking event before Empty Bowls as an additional fundraising component. Attendees paid $50 per ticket and watched Father Burl cook Curried Carrot Soup and explained why this concoction is his favorite. Additionally, Chef Robert Coleman from Joshua Catering at the Lord’s Place recorded a video of him cooking his famous Lumberjack Chili Soup (with chocolate as a special ingredient!) to drive up even more interest in the event. Chef Robert’s Cooking Corner lives on at https://youtu.be/_m_SR5FQHRU.

“We are grateful to partner with the Palm Beach County Food Bank each year for this important fundraiser, and we are overjoyed that we were able to raise over $100,000 for our neighbors in need,” said Fr. Salmon. “We look forward to Empty Bowls every year, but this is an especially significant time with the increased need due to COVID-19. Service is a part of who we are, and this event is the perfect way to serve others in Jesus’ name.”

The Platinum Ladle sponsors for the 8th Annual benefit included Cheney Brothers, Perdue and Smithfield Farmland. Gold Ladle Sponsors included Axis Redistribution, Pam & Brian McIver and Debbie and Michael Pucillo. Silver Ladle Sponsors included Beyond Meat, Censea, Consorzi, Darnel, Dep River Chips, Dole, F. Garcia, FGF Brands, Florida Natural Growers, Hayes, Nikki and Ira Harris, Kari-Out, Key Impact Sales, King & Prince, Market Partners, Ocean Garden, Old School Bakery, PDS Wealth Management, Serviroli Foods, Sullivan Electric, Swisher Proguard and Wells Fargo.

Soup Sponsors included Bath & Tennis Club, The Breakers Palm Beach, BrickTop’s Palm Beach, Buccan Restaurant, Café Boulud, Cucina Palm Beach, Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa, Everglades Club, Field of Greens, Gourmet Galaxy, Joshua Catering Company, Pastry Heaven, Pistache French Bistro, Sailfish Club of Florida, Trevini Ristorante and Old School Bakery.

Underwriters include Kane Konsulting, LLC, Saputo Dairy Foods, Acme, Bayside, Berry Veal, Dave Matthews, Dunbar Partners, LLC, Federal Fisheries, Bertil & Joyce Kjellgren, Paige Kjellstrom, Penguin, Seafood Marketing, Slade, Lois Pope, Patti Jean Roberts-Blank, Cecie & Rod Titcomb, Paul Serpa, Starkist, Kenneth & Mary Walker and Merchant Cheese.

Historically, the Palm Beach County Food Bank provided access to nutritious food for more than 200,000 hungry Palm Beach County residents every month, but since the pandemic, the need has tripled. The Food Bank is now processing an average of 1.5 million pounds of food per month. The Food Bank procures food from grocery stores, restaurants, food distributors, wholesalers and other sources and provides it to almost 200 local community partners, including food pantries, soup kitchens and residential housing programs. Palm Beach County Food Bank programs reach families, school children and seniors, and connect those in need to available benefits and resources.

For more information about the Palm Beach County Food Bank, please visit http://www.pbcfoodbank.org or call 561-670-2518.

The Church of Bethesda-by-the-Sea believes in serving those in need around the corner and around the world, it is integral to our life of faith. As Jesus reminds us, “Whatever you do for the least of these, you do for me.’ Through the Church Mouse and The Shoppe, Bethesda realizes substantial revenue to support our outreach efforts. This financial support is augmented by countless volunteer hours of involvement. Our first priority is education and believe that proper education not only changes the trajectory of one child’s life but also changes the trajectory of generations to follow. Our second priority is food, because 20% of the residents in Palm Beach County suffer food insecurity. Our third priority is shelter, and we provide financial support to agencies with expertise in this necessary work.