School is just around the corner, and the Palm Beach County Food Bank (PBCFB) is launching its “One Can, Two Can, Who Can? You Can!” Back-to-School Food Drive. They’re seeking protein-rich food donations to help local students in need.
Palm Beach County is home to the 10th largest school district in the U.S., and many students face food insecurity. The food bank, working with over 20 partners, aims to gather nonperishable foods, especially canned goods. The most requested items include canned beans, fish, chicken, beef, peanut butter, and fruits and vegetables.
“One in six children in Palm Beach County goes to bed hungry,” says PBCFB CEO Jamie Kendall. “That’s unacceptable. We need the community’s support to change this.” The hope is to double last year’s donations to ensure students have the nutrition they need to succeed in school. Proper nutrition can enhance concentration and overall well-being, giving these kids a better chance for success.
Last year’s food drive, in collaboration with the Palm Beach County Library System, collected over 2,580 pounds of food, providing more than 2,700 meals. This year, the goal is even higher, aiming to gather double that amount.
Drop-off locations include the Palm Beach County Food Bank, several branch libraries, and local businesses like Club Pilates Wellington. As of now, about 192,000 people in Palm Beach County struggle with food insecurity. During 2024, the food bank distributed nearly 13 million meals to local residents.
In a recent survey, about 63% of families reported needing assistance with food, indicating a growing need in the community. Additionally, social media trends show a rising awareness around food security. Many are sharing stories and encouraging friends to contribute to local drives.
The food drive runs until August 31. For more details or to locate the nearest drop-off spot, visit www.pbcfoodbank.org. Every bit helps, and together we can make a difference in our community.