DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – In Central Florida, families are facing higher grocery bills while reductions in SNAP benefits are making it tough for many to manage. As a result, more people are turning to food banks, but one individual in Daytona Beach is stepping up to ensure no one goes hungry.

James Roper has recently donated enough food to bring his total contributions to over 20,000 pounds, equaling 10 tons of groceries delivered to food pantries throughout the area.

“I have experienced needing help,” Roper shared. “I’ve been at a food pantry, hoping to get just a loaf of bread. It’s fulfilling to be in a position now where I can give back.”

According to Second Harvest Food Bank, there has been a significant rise in the need for assistance since pandemic-era benefits were discontinued. With the cost of food, fuel, and rent climbing, more families are seeking help from food banks than ever before.

“In Central Florida, one in seven individuals struggles with food insecurity,” Erika Spence from Second Harvest stated. “This means they either don’t know where their next meal will come from or lack reliable access to food.”

With September recognized as Hunger Action Month, food banks across the nation are encouraging people to donate, volunteer, or initiate local food drives. Second Harvest mentions that even small efforts, such as donating a “buy one, get one free” item from grocery stores, can significantly impact.

For Roper, the mission is personal.

“A lot of people need a hand up, not a handout,” he said. “I see my role in this puzzle as helping people help themselves.”

To help donate and be apart of Second Harvest Food Bank, visit https://feedhopenow.org/