Fighting Hunger and Homelessness Together

As the holidays approach, we are thankful for the opportunity to live and give generously in in the communities we serve. Through back-to-school supply drives, financially literacy classes, and community clean-up days, these are some of the ways we are making a difference.

Fighting hunger and homelessness in our communities is no exception.

Each November, Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week is an annual program where people come together to draw attention to hunger and homelessness problems across the country. An average of 580,000 Americans are homeless on a typical night and 44 million are at risk of suffering from hunger, according to Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week.

In Central Florida, according to the Sharing Center, over half of families are one setback away from homelessness. Increasing bills, unprecedented expenses, and inaccessible resources create a domino effect that leaves many to fall between the gaps.

We’re shining a spotlight on the collective efforts of our crewmembers and partners who are making a difference in the fight against hunger and homelessness year-round.

Fighting Hunger

• Earlier this year, in celebration of “Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Week” in Orlando, we teamed up with US Hunger and over 3,000 community volunteers, to help pack an astounding 1,000,000 meals to assist families impacted by food insecurity.

• We helped to restock United Against Poverty Inc.’s Grocery Center, part of their Member Share Grocery Program, a dignified food and household assistance program.

• During National Volunteer Week, crewmembers prepared lunch and served more than 150 hot meals to men, women, and children staying in Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida’s shelter.

• Each year we’re proud to support the Heart of Florida United Way’s Annual Thanksgiving Project, helping to pack thousands of holiday meal kits to ensure families in the community enjoy a Thanksgiving meal.

FAIRWINDS crewmember Kim Layton has a particular passion for fighting food hunger in the community. “I have seen firsthand how providing meals can uplift those facing difficult circumstances. This work has enriched my life with a sense of purpose and fulfillment, knowing that even small efforts can make a lasting impact,” says Kim.

Fighting Homelessness

• Crewmembers rolled up their sleeves to help revitalize Impower’s The Village, a transitional housing facility for young adults who have aged out of foster care and would otherwise be homeless. We helped to refresh and upgrade bedrooms and living spaces to create a more welcome and comfortable space for their residents.

• We’re long-time supporters of Habitat for Humanity, bringing people together to build homes, communities, and hope. In Central Florida, crewmembers have worked side-by-side with future homeowners to help build their future as part of Habitat for Humanity – Greater Orlando & Osceola County and Habitat for Humanity Seminole Apopka’s programs.

• In addition to home building, crewmembers have volunteered their time toward teaching classes for Habitat for Humanity Seminole-Apopka. Throughout 2024, our experts have facilitated dozens of free educational sessions, equipping participants with the knowledge and tools needed to qualify for down payment assistance on a new home.

FAIRWINDS crewmember Dan Felix, recognized for his outstanding commitment to the community by Habitat for Humanity of Seminole County and Greater Apopka, has been doing his part to help combat homelessness for years. Part of Dan’s volunteerism includes teaching financial literacy courses to future Habitat homeowners. “To truly break the cycle of poverty, understanding core fundamentals like budgeting, saving, and credit management is essential,” says Dan. “Completing financial literacy courses helps new homeowners ensure that their home is financially sustainable.”

“Fighting hunger and homelessness is a mission that requires attention and action throughout the year," says Adrian Kierulf-Velez, Community Relations Manager for FAIRWINDS. "We encourage everyone to get involved by volunteering, donating, or simply spreading awareness. Through collaborative partnerships, we strive to uplift our most vulnerable neighbors and help them regain stability and hope."

Whether donating your time or your treasure, as these stories show, we can all help to change lives.