As devastating federal cuts to food and health assistance programs hit home — and the recent government shutdown delays benefits and paychecks for local families — this “season of plenty” will look very different for thousands of people in Sarasota and DeSoto counties. 

Between January and August 2025, All Faiths Food Bank saw visits rise by 22% compared to the same period last year. That number is expected to grow as the full impact of these government policy decisions take hold.

Hardworking parents, seniors on fixed incomes and veterans who dedicated their lives to service — all struggling to afford basic necessities like groceries, rent and gas — make up the nearly 220,000 people in our community who need food each year. More than half of local children rely on free and reduced-cost school meals for the nutrition they need to grow and succeed academically.

All Faiths Food Bank hosts or supplies about 725 monthly food distributions year-round. For many years, the organization and its partners have also ensured families have food during the holidays — an effort that has grown through the ThankFULL campaign. 

This year’s campaign features imagery inspired by Norman Rockwell’s iconic “Freedom From Want” painting, reimagined to highlight the contrast between the abundance many enjoy and the growing number of families who face empty tables. The message – “The season of plenty? The need has never been greater. The resources have never been fewer.” – captures the reality of hunger in our community and the urgent need for support.

This year’s goal is to distribute 14,500 turkey dinners through funds raised in October and November. Continued contributions throughout December will help provide 4.1 million holiday meals.

“Rising costs, shrinking resources and reduced government support mean more families are relying on All Faiths Food Bank than ever before,” said President and CEO Nelle S. Miller. “The holidays offer the perfect opportunity to come together and showcase the true spirit of the season – we urge all who are able to contribute to the ThankFULL campaign this year so none of our neighbors face empty plates this holiday season.”

Large-scale turkey distributions will take place in DeSoto and Sarasota counties in November. Holiday meals will be distributed through partner agency food distributions and All Faiths’ mobile pantries. For details, visit the “Food Finder” page at allfaithsfoodbank.org. To donate to the ThankFULL campaign, visit allfaithsfoodbank.org/thankfull. 

About All Faiths Food Bank

All Faiths Food Bank is the only food bank and largest hunger relief organization in Sarasota and DeSoto counties, providing millions of meals each year in collaboration with more than 300 agencies and programs throughout the community. All Faiths works not only to end hunger today, but also strives to end hunger – forever – by helping families and individuals gain long-term food security, enjoy better health outcomes, and achieve self-sufficiency. All Faiths is rated four stars by Charity Navigator and is a partner of the Feeding America and Feeding Florida networks. Visit allfaithsfoodbank.org.