Food bank serves 376 seniors weekly in effort to reduce transportation barriers

United Food Bank and Services in Plant City is operating two mobile distribution sites each month to serve 376 registered seniors who struggle with reliable transportation. The organization aims to move clients from a state of hunger to self-sufficiency by delivering nutritious food and essential household resources directly to Bealsville and Plant City Towers in downtown Plant City.

Mary Heysek, the organization's president and CEO, stated that the Feeding Our Legacy program visits these two off-site locations to support older adults who may have difficulty traveling to the main facility. She noted that the number of seniors served is currently 376 and continues to grow. The goal is to make supplies more accessible while helping seniors maintain their independence and quality of life.

The organization addresses the financial strain on older adults, who often face difficult choices between purchasing nutritious food and paying for medications or other essential expenses. Heysek said the program works to ease that burden and improve access to resources, helping seniors maintain their health, independence, and dignity.

The Feeding Our Future program targets local school and college students. This initiative partners with 26 local schools to distribute 1,300 weekend food bags each week during the school year. During nonschool time, the organization increases distribution to 1,500 break bags each week.

The college hunger component partners with two institutions to address food insecurity. The organization provides weekly food assistance to approximately 35 students at Hillsborough College. It also stocks an on-site student food pantry at the University of Florida IFAS, extending support to students beyond the immediate community.

United Food Bank and Services is seeking new partnerships in the Valrico, Brandon, and Lithia areas. The organization intends to extend its reach to families and individuals who cannot travel to its current location at 702 E. Alsobrook St. in Plant City. Heysek said the organization is looking at where additional support may be needed to reach people closer to where they live.

The organization's mission is to help those in need by moving them from a state of hunger and impoverishment to empowerment and self-reliance. Contact information for the office is available at 813-764-0265, and the website is ufbpc.org.