Orange County, local nonprofits unite to fight hunger after SNAP benefit suspension

In Summary:
As the federal government shutdown halts the distribution of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, Orange County joined several nonprofit leaders to coordinate a local response aimed at preventing hunger among the county’s 175,000 SNAP recipients. Demings outlined a three-part plan that includes requesting state emergency funds, reviewing the county budget for available relief dollars, and encouraging community food drives and donations. Partner organizations such as Second Harvest Food Bank, Heart of Florida United Way, and the Christian Service Center are offering food resources and support services to those affected. County officials and nonprofits alike are urging residents and businesses to step up as the shutdown continues to strain vulnerable families, seniors, veterans, and children across Central Florida.

Last week, Orange County Government joined representatives from Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida, Heart of Florida United Way, and the Christian Service Center for the Homeless to discuss the suspension of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits resulting from the federal government shutdown and find ways to prevent residents from going hungry.

Related: Most Social Security recipients say 2.8% COLA isn’t enough.

Approximately 175,000 Orange County residents rely on SNAP benefits for much-needed food assistance.  With no November distribution planned, this freeze will negatively impact many families, seniors, veterans, individuals with disabilities, and children in the community.

During the news conference, Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings outlined three ways Orange County Government would support residents during the shutdown.

1. Send a letter to Governor DeSantis requesting that the state work in coordination with local governments to access state emergency funds to support Florida residents.
2. Ask the Orange County Board of County Commissioners to review the current budget to identify available funds that could be redirected to assist needy residents.
3. Outreach to residents and businesses to donate or hold food drives.

Some alternative community resources are available to residents who need assistance. (Last updated on 10/30/2025)

Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida

• Food Locator: Find food through partners in Brevard, Lake, Marion, Orange, Osceola, Seminole, and Volusia counties.
• Make A Donation: Every $10 donated provides 40 meals.

Heart of Florida United Way

• 211: Get help paying bills, finding food, and locating other resources near you.

Orange County Community and Family Services 

• Citizen Resource and Outreach Division: Find short-term assistance for residents facing temporary financial hardship.

Pictured L to R:  Nicole Wilson, Orange County District 1 Commissioner; Maribel Gomez Cordero, Orange County District 4 Commissioner; Stephanie Palacios, Director of Advocacy & Government Relations for Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida; Jerry L.  Demings, Orange County Mayor; Kelly Astro, Senior Vice President of Community Impact for Heart of Florida United Way; Eric Gray, Executive Director of the Christian Service Center for the Homeless.