A community food distribution in Miami Gardens helped alleviate the financial burden of buying groceries.
Food insecurity is a reality many people face. One bad moment can easily be the difference between having access to food or going hungry.
According to the 2021 Feeding America food insecurity data, 10.4% of the Miami-Dade County population suffers from food insecurity, with $278,950 people wondering where their next meal will come from.
The battle against high inflation rates adds another layer to the financial burden people face.
Despite price increases, food remains a necessity and this community feeding helped bridge the gap by giving neighbors the fresh food they needed.
The event was hosted by the City of Miami Gardens, Councilwoman Linda Julien, who partnered with Feeding South Florida, the Brady Hunter Foundation, and the Universal Truth Center.
“We understand that there is food scarcity out there and we want to make sure that we provide as much of an impact to our community as possible,” said Julien. “Interest rates are high, groceries are high, rent is high, but we also know that the salaries are stagnant. And so some people struggle to get those items to put on their table”.
The high cost of groceries and the lack of sufficient household income were the main reasons people attended the food distribution.
“I do find them extremely beneficial for my household being that I am a recent retiree, so of course funds get a little tight,” said Catherine Williams. “This is so helpful.”
The number of bags distributed varied based on household size.
Fresh produce such as cabbage, yams, corn, and tomatoes were on the menu. The goods are anticipated to last at least a week. The next community feeding distribution will be hosted by Councilman Reggie Leon at 9 a.m. on Sept. 30 at Norwood Park.
