Children are heading back to school for another year of learning and growing. At The Food Bank of Manatee, a PLUS program of Meals on Wheels PLUS of Manatee, we believe that minds and bodies thrive with good nutrition and food should be at the top of the list for our children. As we return thousands of Manatee County students to school, we know that many families are having a terrible time making ends meet.

With the high costs of living in our area, families are really struggling. We saw high demand at our summer food distributions for children and their families in May, June, and July and are grateful to everyone who helped us provide vital nutrition. Alice, who came to receive food told us, “…things are so expensive, and I have a large family, and we need extra food… The Food Bank helps us out. Without this food, there may be times my kids would have to skip a meal.”

As the only food bank based in Manatee County, and the main food source for 100+ food pantries and partner agencies, the demand right now is very high. Please help us keep the shelves stocked for those in need of basic nutrition in our community.

Together, we can make sure that no child suffers from food-insecurity. Together, we can make sure that all children have the opportunity to learn and succeed.

For every dollar you so generously donate, 92 cents goes directly into our PLUS programs. Together, we can meet the nutritional needs of children returning to school, so their minds can thrive. Please donate today!

Click here to make your gift today!