Welcome To The Star94fm.com Community Connection!

We are your Community Station

---

Each week, more than 14,000 Central Floridians have to decide between paying their rent or eating. Another 18,000 people have to choose between purchasing medicine or buying food. Many in our region are working at low wage jobs and can't afford the increasing cost to live here. Therefore many are relying on food pantries to stretch their food budget.

Second Harvest's Dave Kepchro says, it's more than a vicious cycle....if you're not getting enough to ear, eventually it hurts your ability to work and stay healthy. It's a downward spiral." Susan Mitchell a registered dietitian comments, "skimping can make the hungry obese, because they rely on cheap, carbohydrate and low-nutrition foods to feel full."

In the six county region, through more than 170 service agencies, 16.7 million pounds of food is distributed each year. Another 9.4 million pounds of food is needed every year just to meet the existing need. And some smaller food pantries have to turn people away because their shelves are bare.

For more information on where to look for help, contact:

• Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida, 407/295-1066
• Christian Sharing Center of Longwood, 407/260-9155
• Christian Service Center of Orlando, 407/425-2523
• Greater Orlando Food Bank, 407/849-0079
• Department of Children & Families, 407/245-0400