ST. LUCIE COUNTY, Fla. (CBS12) — DONATE NOW
For many families facing food insecurity, a local pantry or meal program is where they receive help. Behind many of those services, however, is the Treasure Coast Food Bank.
The nonprofit serves as the largest hunger relief organization across Indian River, Martin, St. Lucie and Okeechobee counties, helping provide food and resources to residents while supporting hundreds of community partners throughout the region.
Feed the Need: Treasure Coast Food Bank supports 300 partners in fight against hunger. (WPEC)
As a member of the Feeding America network, the Treasure Coast Food Bank acts as a distribution hub for approximately 300 local agencies and nonprofits, including food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters and community programs. Those organizations rely on the food bank to help stock shelves and provide meals to families in need.
Last year alone, the organization distributed more than 52 million pounds of food, the equivalent of about 57 million meals across the Treasure Coast.
Feed the Need: Treasure Coast Food Bank supports 300 partners in fight against hunger. (WPEC)
Food bank leaders say demand for assistance has remained high as families continue to navigate rising grocery prices, housing costs and other financial pressures. At the same time, recent reductions in federal food resources have placed additional strain on hunger relief organizations and increased the importance of local donations and volunteer support.
Feed the Need: Treasure Coast Food Bank supports 300 partners in fight against hunger. (WPEC)
To help meet growing demand, the Treasure Coast Food Bank recently moved into a larger warehouse facility. The expanded space allows the organization to store more food, purchase larger quantities when products become available, and improve distribution efforts across its four-county service area. The warehouse also serves as a staging location for emergency food and supply distribution during hurricanes and other disasters.
Feed the Need: Treasure Coast Food Bank supports 300 partners in fight against hunger. (WPEC)
Beyond food distribution, the organization offers programs designed to help individuals achieve long-term stability. Those efforts include workforce development and job training opportunities in fields such as commercial driving, culinary arts, hospitality, logistics and supply chain management.
The food bank also connects clients with additional support services, helping families access resources that address challenges beyond hunger.
Feed the Need: Treasure Coast Food Bank supports 300 partners in fight against hunger. (WPEC)
Leaders say community involvement remains critical to sustaining those programs. Volunteers help sort donations, prepare food orders and support daily operations throughout the warehouse.
The Treasure Coast Food Bank estimates that a $10 donation can help provide about 80 meals for local families.
The Feed the Need campaign helps those in your community fight hunger. (WPEC)
As CBS12’s Feed the Need campaign continues, organization leaders encourage residents to support hunger relief efforts through donations, volunteer service or by helping raise awareness about food insecurity in their communities. If you would like to donate, CLICK HERE.