BISHOP PARKER FOUNDATION PROVIDES CRITICAL FUNDING FOR FOOD BANK OF MANATEE MOBILE PRODUCE PANTRIES

The Food Bank of Manatee, the only food bank based in Manatee County and the largest hunger relief organization in the community, received generous funding from The Bishop Parker Foundation.  The funding in support of Mobile Produce Pantries operated by The Food Bank of Manatee aims to address the significant barrier many families face in accessing healthy food options due to cost, accessibility, and other factors.

The Mobile Produce Pantry program reduces barriers to access by providing free, fresh fruits and vegetables to families in need. With the funding provided, an estimated 15,750 people received fresh produce through this program from December of 2024 through June of 2025.

“This is such an important program for families who are struggling to make ends meet because typically fresh, nutritious options are more expensive,” said Maribeth Phillips, President & CEO of Meals on Wheels PLUS of Manatee. “When money is tight, it’s easier to make the decision to skip the healthy options,” she added.

On the third Thursday of each month, The Food Bank distributes fresh produce, free of charge to families in high-need areas in Manatee County. For more information on the distribution times and locations, visit MealsOnWheelsPLUS.org.

The Food Bank of Manatee is the only food bank based in Manatee County, Florida and is an independent food bank relying 100% on the support of the community to meet the needs of food-insecure babies, children, families, and seniors in our community. Additional funding is needed for this program. Those interested in learning more should visit http://www.MealsOnWheelsPLUS.org. or call 941-747-4655.