Local Heroes of Seminole County: Inspiring Acts of Kindness This Holiday Season

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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Written by Catie Moore

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