Our final awardee during Hunger Action Month knows the deep connection between the farmers who grow our food and the families who need it most. This is why we were honored to thank Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson with the Feeding Florida Champion Award. Commissioner Simpson has been a passionate advocate for the Farmers Feeding Florida initiative, firmly believing that the path to feeding more families in need begins with empowering Florida’s farmers. He understands the importance of supporting our state’s produce farmers, but also saw the potential of expanding into proteins—rescuing surplus milk, sourcing Florida-raised beef, obtaining fresh seafood, and helping other locally grown products reach families across the state. We thank the Commissioner for his dedication to connecting more farmers and their wonderful fresh products to the families we serve. He is a Feeding Florida Champion. (fb)

During Hunger Action Month we want to thank those who have taken a stand to ensure all of Florida’s families have access to healthy food. In August we had the privilege of awarding Senate President Ben Albritton with the first Feeding Florida Champion Award. President Albritton is a long-standing supporter of food banks, recognizing that a single act of assistance during a family’s crisis can lead to lasting stability. During his first legislative session as President, he worked tirelessly to help Florida families by advocating for increased access to fresh, locally grown produce—especially in rural communities where the need is greatest. We thank President Albritton for leading efforts to support the most vulnerable Floridians, making it his mission to make sure every child has enough food to eat. He is a Feeding Florida Champion. (fb)