July 2026 Newsletter

A $50,000 Challenge to Inspire Giving

The Food Bank of Manatee and Meals on Wheels PLUS are working hard to support local families during the summer months. Through the Food4Families program, our Friday distribution days have seen a growing number of families in need, highlighting just how critical these services are in our community. The goal is ambitious—200,000 meals over a 9-week program—but essential to ensuring children and their families have consistent, nutritious food.

Every FRIDAY through July 31, families can access meals at the following convenient locations:

Manatee Mobile Home Park

2204 Manatee Avenue East, Bradenton

12:00 PM – 1:00 PM

Pride Park

6032 9th Street East, Bradenton

1:15 PM – 2:15 PM

Turner Chapel

317 11th Street West, Palmetto

12:00 PM – 1:00 PM

Lincoln Park

501 17th Street East, Palmetto

1:15PM-2:15PM

The need for the Food4Families program has grown significantly this year. To help meet this need, Sara and Steve and Bayard have stepped forward with a generous $50,000 matching gift challenge, encouraging the community to take action. Every dollar donated was doubled, making an even greater impact. Reaching this goal is only possible with community support—we can’t do it without your help!

Together, we can make a powerful impact and ensure no child goes hungry this summer.

Donate to The Food Bank of Manatee

HIGHLIGHTS

Pictured: Home-delivered Meals Client, William and partner Carolyn; (center) Nichole K., Administrative Assistant to Maribeth Phillips, President & CEO.

100th Birthday Celebration!

On Wednesday, July 1, 2026, Home-delivered Meals Client William R. celebrated a major milestone birthday- he turned 100 years old! We were glad to celebrate his special day with him and surprised him with flowers, a birthday balloon, a piece of cake, and a birthday card! William is a World War II Navy Veteran and was in great spirits for his special birthday. When asked what the secret to a long and happy life is, he responded, "You have to have a sense of humor in today's world and it's important to treat others how you want to be treated... just be nice."

Thank you for your service to our country, William. Happy Birthday!

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Our Home-delivered Meals program provides nutritious meals for those in need in our community. All Home-delivered Meals are approved by a registered dietitian, and pureed meals are also available for individuals who have special needs.

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Game Day Fun with Tracy

Participants at Daybreak Adult Day Center had a great time during their weekly program, Game Day with Tracy! From tossing bean bags and playing cornhole to laughing through the lively balloon pants game, everyone stayed active and engaged. These fun activities encourage movement, teamwork, and lots of smiles.

Game Day with our amazing volunteer, Tracy, is more than just play—it’s an opportunity for participants to stay active, build confidence, and enjoy meaningful social time with friends. The energy in the room was contagious, and it’s clear that these moments make a lasting impact on everyone involved.

We’re already looking forward to the next round of games—and more laughter to come! Game Day with Tracy happens every Wednesday. Check out our calendar for this activity and more at- Daybreak Adult Day Center Calendar & Menu | Meals on Wheels PLUS of Manatee

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At Daybreak Adult Day Center, we provide a safe, secure environment with social, and therapeutic activities designed to meet the needs of older adults who live at home with a loved one but cannot be left alone while their caregiver works or attends to other responsibilities.

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Armchair Travel: India

Our Friendship Dining clients recently enjoyed an unforgettable journey to India—without ever leaving their seats—thanks to the magic of Armchair Travel. The experience brought the sights, sounds, and culture of India right into the room, giving everyone a chance to explore a vibrant and fascinating country together. From learning about traditions to discovering fun facts, the session truly sparked curiosity and connection.

The day was made even more special by Tammy, one of our Activities Coordinators for Friendship Dining, who surprised the group with beautiful Indian clothing for everyone to wear. Clients had a wonderful time dressing up, embracing the colorful fabrics and styles, and fully immersing themselves in the cultural experience.

To top it all off, the group participated in a lively Kahoot! quiz all about India. The friendly competition brought out lots of enthusiasm, with participants eager to test what they had learned and cheer each other on. It was a fantastic blend of learning, fun, and togetherness.

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The Friendship Dining Program is for people who are 60 and over who would like to make new friends, participate in fun activities, and hear from local experts on a variety of topics as well as enjoy a nutritious meal.

EVENT CALENDAR | REGISTER | VOLUNTEER

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SPOTLIGHTS

DONOR SPOTLIGHT

Fresh Food, Lasting Impact

Detwiler’s Farm Market continues to make a tremendous difference in our community through its generous support of our mission. So far this year, Detwiler’s has donated more than 40,000 pounds of fresh produce and grocery items, helping ensure that families and individuals facing food insecurity have access to nutritious, high-quality food.

As a locally owned business, Detwiler’s exemplifies what it means to invest in the community. Their ongoing partnership helps us serve more neighbors in need while reducing food waste and promoting healthier lives. We are deeply grateful for their generosity and commitment to making a lasting impact. Thank you, Detwiler’s Farm Market, for being such a valued partner in the fight against hunger.

VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT

Serving with Heart to Fight Hunger

Carol and Frank P. are dedicated volunteers who have made a meaningful impact through their work with our Food4Families summer food distribution program. Driven by a deep commitment to give back to their community, they generously dedicate their time to helping ensure local families have access to nutritious meals, especially during the summer months. They also help by volunteering at The Food Bank, sorting through donated food.

For Carol and Frank, volunteering is more than just service—it’s a reflection of their belief that caring for neighbors in need strengthens the entire community.

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

Youth in Action: Woodland Church Groups Give Back

The Woodland Church Youth Group recently made a tremendous impact during their visit, bringing energy, teamwork, and a strong spirit of service to support our mission. More than 50 youth participants came together to help the community in meaningful ways. The boys worked hard at The Food Bank of Manatee, packing potatoes for distribution to families in need, while the girls contributed their creativity by painting beautiful bowls for our upcoming Empty Bowls Event.

Their collective efforts not only helped advance key initiatives but also demonstrated a shared commitment to caring for others. It was inspiring to see so many young people step up to make a difference, and their enthusiasm and willingness to serve left a lasting impression on everyone involved.

Donate to The Food Bank of Manatee & Meals on Wheels PLUS

UPCOMING EVENTS