Star of the Sea Foundation Aids Florida Keys Families Facing Food Insecurity

Addressing Food Insecurity in the Florida Keys

• 🎯 43% of Monroe County residents live below the federal poverty line, according to the Star of the Sea Foundation.
• 💡 The Star of the Sea Foundation serves underserved populations in the Florida Keys, providing essential support.

Star of the Sea Foundation's Impact

• 🗓️ Since 2006, SOS has saved working poor families in Monroe County $2.88 million in meals through its pantries.
• 📦 This year alone, the foundation has distributed nearly 369,000 lbs of food.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 They service approximately 180 families weekly in Key Largo and around 500 families weekly in Key West.

Challenges and Needs

• 📉 SOS relies heavily on surplus food donations due to broad cuts in federal food supplies and county funding.
• ⚠️ There are weeks when food options are very limited, with a specific need for more dairy and protein-rich foods.
• 💰 The foundation can save a family an estimated $124 per week on groceries.

Call to Action: Day of Giving

• 🙏 Star of the Sea is issuing an SOS to Local 10 viewers for their annual Day of Giving on Friday, November 7th.
• 🥫 Donations of non-perishable food items are greatly appreciated, especially for the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday.
• 💻 Monetary donations can be made safely and conveniently online via local10.com, or by scanning the QR code on screen.
• 🛒 Non-perishable food donations can be brought to the location in Key Largo.