Catie Moore
The holiday season is about giving back, and Seminole County is home to incredible individuals and organizations making a difference in their community. From feeding the hungry to spreading joy through volunteer work, here are the stories of local heroes inspiring us this season.
1. John Martinez: Feeding Families in Need
- What He’s Doing: Founder of Community Plates Sanford, John rescues surplus food from local restaurants and grocery stores to deliver meals to families in need.
- Impact: Over 15,000 meals distributed this year alone, ensuring no one goes hungry during the holidays.
- How to Support: Volunteer to help distribute meals or donate to the cause.
- Learn More: Community Plates
2. Oviedo High School Students Host a Toy Drive
- What They’re Doing: This group of compassionate students is collecting toys for local children in foster care, aiming to ensure every child receives a gift this Christmas.
- Impact: Hundreds of toys have already been donated, with more arriving daily.
- How to Support: Drop off a toy at designated donation bins around Oviedo or contribute funds online.
- Learn More: Oviedo High School
3. Sandra Lee: Making the Holidays Brighter for Seniors
- What She’s Doing: Sandra runs “Adopt-a-Senior,” a program that provides holiday care packages, cards, and visits to elderly residents in assisted living facilities.
- Impact: Over 200 seniors will receive gifts and companionship this holiday season.
- How to Support: Donate blankets, toiletries, or holiday cards to Sandra’s initiative.
4. Sanford Fire Department’s “Operation Santa Run”
- What They’re Doing: Sanford firefighters are delivering gifts and spreading holiday cheer by parading through neighborhoods with Santa on their firetruck.
- Impact: Bringing joy to countless families and fostering a sense of community spirit.
- How to Support: Attend one of the parade stops and bring canned goods to donate to local food pantries.
- Learn More: Sanford Fire Department
5. A Local Business Giving Back: Sweet Treats Bakery
- What They’re Doing: This family-owned bakery in Lake Mary is donating 10% of December sales to local homeless shelters and hosting a cookie-decorating fundraiser for kids.
- Impact: Helping to provide meals and supplies for struggling families in Seminole County.
- How to Support: Visit Sweet Treats Bakery to enjoy their holiday menu and contribute to their cause.
How You Can Help This Holiday Season:
- Volunteer Your Time: Many of these organizations rely on volunteers to make their programs successful.
- Donate Generously: Even small contributions can make a big difference.
- Spread the Word: Share these inspiring stories to encourage others to get involved.
This holiday season, let’s celebrate the kindness and generosity of those making a difference in Seminole County. Their inspiring actions remind us that the true spirit of the holidays lies in giving back.
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