Credit: Florida Department of Health in Orange County
A Ray of Sunshine Food Pantry
Celebrating Two Years of Nourishing Our Community
In September 2025, the Florida Department of Health in Orange County proudly celebrated the 2nd Anniversary of the Ray of Sunshine Food Pantry, a vital community resource dedicated to improving food security and overall well-being.
This milestone event brought together our dedicated staff and valued community partners, who have played a crucial role in the pantry’s growth and sustainability. Their unwavering support is a powerful reminder of what we can achieve when we unite to address one of the most pressing social determinants of health: access to nutritious food.
The Ray of Sunshine Food Pantry serves as a critical safety net, offering not only food assistance but also nutritional education, referrals to other local pantries, and connections to wraparound social services. Located in a county that includes several USDA-designated “food desert” areas, the pantry helps bridge the gap for families facing limited access to affordable, healthy food.
Hosted at DOH-Orange and operated in partnership with The Sharing Center, the pantry has made a significant impact over the past two years.
From September 2024 to September 2025, we proudly served:
- 11,023 families, including 3,678 children
- 3,313 produce packages distributed
- 2,412 total food packages provided
- 832 new referrals to additional services
These numbers reflect more than just meals, they represent hope, dignity, and the power of community.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the organizations that have helped make this possible: AdventHealth, Second Harvest Food Bank, The Sharing Center, 4Roots, and the American Heart Association. Your generosity and partnership have touched thousands of lives, bringing nourishment and renewed hope to those who need it most.
Thank you for being a ray of sunshine in our community.
