HUDSON, Fla. — As many gather around the dinner table today for Thanksgiving, some are feeling a little extra thankful.
What You Need To Know
- Every month, the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office and other community groups come together for a pop-up farm-share food distribution
- The distribution is helping feed hundreds of Pasco County families with turkeys, rice, and other food items being handed out
- The Sheriff’s Office will be holding their next distribution on December 7
In Pasco County, a few community groups have come together to make sure all have a meal to gather around. It’s an annual tradition that is only getting stronger.
At a Walmart parking lot, a few good samaritans are spreading some holiday cheer.
“We’re giving food to the needy and those who may need some food for the holidays this season,” says Cpl. Jennifer Rongo with the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office.
It’s a farm-share pop-up coordinated by the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office, and Rongo is one of those helping give out food. Joined alongside those from others throughout the community like Pasco County NAACP, the Gentleman’s Course and Samaritan Corporation of Pasco County.
“It’s very rewarding seeing how grateful and how blessed these people are,” said Rongo. “I feel blessed to be a part of this opportunity. I love giving back to the community and seeing how happy they are to be receiving this food at this time. Especially during the holiday season, it’s a great feeling.”
And they don’t come short-handed, either. Dozens of food items are packed delicately inside bags where they are then distributed, assembly line style, to those lining up in their cars.
“We have turkeys, Cheez-Its, rice. We have all sorts of different kinds of foods. We have pickles, condiments, everything people would want to enjoy during the holiday season,” she said.
It has become a monthly tradition for the Sheriff’s Office. A tradition going on for two and a half years strong. With hopes to find momentum and carry on.
“Being able to give back to the community and fill their cars with food and provide food for them on their tables is so rewarding,” said Rongo. “It’s great when everybody comes together, and we all work together to make this happen for everybody.”
Something everyone is a little more thankful for this Thanksgiving.
The Sheriff’s Office will be holding their next distribution on December 7. You can find more information on that event online here.
