The Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd has been serving neighbors facing food insecurity since the 1800s, with roots in community care that stretch back to the earliest days of Central Florida. Located in Maitland near the border of historic Eatonville, the church continues this long-standing mission by meeting the needs of neighbors across both communities.

Twice a month, on the second and fourth Saturdays, the food pantry distributes groceries through a drive-up and walk-up format, providing shelf-stable items, frozen meat, and fresh fruits and vegetables. Once a month, toiletry items are also included, and during the week, bags of non-perishable food are available to anyone who stops by the church office in need. Today, the pantry serves an average of 290 families and nearly 1,100 individuals each month, with distribution numbers continuing to grow.

Operating out of a small church campus, the pantry relies heavily on strong community support. As demand increased, volunteers from neighboring churches stepped in to help, and Orange County grant funding made available through Second Harvest provided a vital boost. When funding concerns arose in 2024, the response from church members and community partners ensured services continued without interruption.

Following COVID, the pantry transitioned to a drive-through model that has allowed it to serve more neighbors than ever before while welcoming a new generation of volunteers, including youth who serve alongside their families. One memorable moment came when a Lynx bus driver, after bringing neighbors to the pantry, shared that she too was in need, which is a powerful reminder that food insecurity can touch anyone.

Partnership with Second Harvest has been essential to the pantry’s success, helping stretch budgets through discounted food, pre-ordering options, and additional programs. Support from local churches, businesses, city departments, and community events like the annual Chili Cook-off continues to strengthen their work.

We are grateful for the Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd and their enduring partnership, and for more than a century of compassion, service, and commitment to neighbors in need.