In response to rising food prices and increasing hunger in the community, the Osceola Response Team has initiated a groundbreaking program called "Open The Freezer." This initiative allows individuals in need to access food without any barriers, ensuring that no one has to choose between paying rent and eating.
Key Takeaways
- The "Open The Freezer" program provides free access to food for those in need.
- The initiative was launched by the Osceola Response Team four months ago.
- There are currently five operational freezer locations, with plans for a sixth.
- The program aims to alleviate food insecurity in Osceola County, where rates are higher than the national average.
Addressing Food Insecurity
As inflation continues to impact everyday expenses, many families are forced to make difficult choices regarding their basic needs. Richard Herr, the Director of the Osceola Response Team, recognized the urgent need for a solution after witnessing the struggles of local residents.
Herr’s inspiration for the program came from personal memories of his mother reminding him to close the freezer. He decided to purchase freezers to create a safe space where individuals could take what they need without judgment or questions.
Freezer Locations
Currently, the Osceola Response Team has established five freezer locations across the county:
- Abracadabra Ice Cream Factory in Kissimmee: 11 AM – 11 PM
- Granny’s Southern Smokehouse in St. Cloud: Open 24 hours
- Green Machine Services in Kissimmee: Open 24 hours
- Homepride Group Realty in St. Cloud: Open 24 hours
- Kwik Stop at 2331 Old Dixie Highway in Kissimmee: Open 8 AM – 8 PM
Each location also features a pantry stocked with non-perishable items, ensuring a wider range of food options for those in need.
Community Support and Donations
The Osceola Response Team is committed to keeping the freezers stocked and accessible. They fill each location every other day, but with increased community support and donations, they hope to enhance the frequency of replenishment.
Community members are encouraged to contribute by donating food directly into the freezers or by scanning a QR code located on each freezer to make monetary donations. This collaborative effort aims to foster a sense of community and support among residents.
The Bigger Picture
According to the Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida, approximately 1 in 8 individuals and 1 in 6 children in the region face food insecurity. The rates in Marion and Osceola Counties exceed the national average of 13.5%, highlighting the critical need for initiatives like "Open The Freezer."
Herr emphasizes that no community should have to witness its members going hungry or resorting to desperate measures. The program not only provides immediate relief but also aims to create a sustainable model for addressing hunger in the long term.
As the Osceola Response Team continues to expand its efforts, the hope is that more residents will feel empowered to seek help and that the stigma surrounding food insecurity will diminish. This innovative approach to tackling hunger is a testament to the power of community action and compassion.
