LONGWOOD, Fla. — Volunteers spent the Fourth of July weekend giving back to those who served.
The World Mission Society Church of God hosted a food drive Sunday at Reiter Park in Longwood with a goal of collecting 10,000 pounds of food and essential items for veterans experiencing food insecurity.
Organizers said the donations will be given to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, which will distribute them to veteran families in need.
“This year is the 250th anniversary of the United States,” said Vanessa Freire, a member of the World Mission Society Church of God. “So what better way to celebrate than to honor and serve the veterans who fought for our independence?”
Freire said the church wanted to use the milestone anniversary as an opportunity to give back to veterans who served the country.
She said many veteran families continue to struggle with food insecurity.
“So about 1 in 5 families tend to suffer in or experience food insecurities as far as veteran families,” Freire said. “So definitely our veterans shouldn’t have to worry about where their next meal comes from. So it’s important for us to always have them in our thoughts and our hearts and give back to them.”
The food drive accepted a variety of donations, including canned goods and ready-to-eat meals. Organizers also welcomed families to the event with a barbecue, activities and a visit from the Longwood Fire Department.
Freire said she hopes the event encourages more people to support local veterans.
“Definitely don’t hesitate. This is a good cause for, you know, the veterans who served our country,” Freire said.