For more than a decade, Joining Hands in Food Ministry Inc. has been a vital lifeline for low-income and elderly residents across Lake County. What began in 2013 as a small volunteer effort has grown into a well-organized and compassionate ministry that now serves an average of 650 neighbors each month.

Their dedicated team of volunteers work tirelessly to provide nutritious food along with supportive resources such as immunizations, housing and rental referrals, domestic violence assistance, substance abuse support, and connections to additional food programs.

Since 2015, JHIFM has served more than 58,000 neighbors and distributed more than 1.1 million pounds of food. Their impact is reflected not only in these numbers, but in the many moments that remind them why their work matters. One meaningful example came during a distribution when a child’s relief at receiving food highlighted the importance of ensuring families do not have to wonder where their next meal will come from.

While staffing remains their biggest challenge, particularly with an aging volunteer base and many seasonal helpers, JHIFM continues to push forward thanks to strong support from local churches, community groups, and service organizations.

We at Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida are truly grateful for Joining Hands in Food Ministry’s partnership and their unwavering commitment to serving their neighbors with dignity and compassion.