Orange County Seeks Alternative Measures to Fight Hunger With Recent SNAP Benefits Suspension
On Wednesday, October 29, 2025, Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings joined representatives from Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida, Heart of Florida United Way, and the Christian Service Center for the Homeless to address the suspension of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits resulting from the federal government shutdown, and find ways to help residents from going hungry.
Approximately 175,000 Orange County residents rely on SNAP benefits for much-needed food assistance. With no November distribution planned, this freeze will negatively impact many families, seniors, veterans, individuals with disabilities, and children in the community.
During the news conference, Mayor Demings outlined three ways Orange County Government would support residents during the shutdown.
- Send letter to Governor DeSantis requesting that the state work in coordination with local governments to access state emergency funds to support Florida residents.
- Ask the Orange County Board of County Commissioners to review the current budget to identify available funds that could be redirected to assist needy residents.
- Outreach to residents and businesses to donate or hold food drives.
Some alternative community resources are available to residents who need assistance with food insecurity and other related needs. (Last updated on 11/3/2025)
Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida
Food Locator: Find food through partners in Brevard, Lake, Marion, Orange, Osceola, Seminole, and Volusia counties.
Make A Donation: Every $10 donated provides 40 meals.
Heart of Florida United Way
211: Get help paying bills, finding food, and locating other resources near you.
Hurricane Melissa Relief: Support immediate needs assistance for communities in Jamaica and the Caribbean.
Orange County Community and Family Services
Find short-term assistance for residents facing temporary financial hardship. Orange County provides direct assistance to support families temporarily in need by lessening the financial burden of maintaining a household. For assistance, please call 407-836-7699 or review the frequently asked questions to help you find the support you need.
I have recently been impacted by the federal government shutdown; either my job or benefits have been impacted. Where can I go for assistance?
The Crisis Assistance Program is a limited financial assistance program for Orange County residents. The program provides one-time financial assistance for past due rent, mortgage, and/or utilities — electric, gas, or water only. Applicants must be legal Orange County residents for at least 90 days. Other criteria are also used to qualify those in need. For more information, call 407-836-6500 to be screened for an appointment.
Appointments are scheduled on a first call, first-serve basis Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to noon, and 1:30 to 4 p.m., excluding Orange County observed holidays and closures due to a weather. The Citizens Commission for Children can also help connect you to the following services and resources:
- Health services
- Employment and financial counseling
- Mental health and family stability support
- Community-based resources
- Limited food pantry services
- Diaper Bank services
- Bus passes
I am a senior citizen in need of services, where can I get assistance?
Seniors in need of assistance are encouraged to contact the Orange County Office on Aging at 407-836-7446 for referrals to resources that meet their specific needs.
How can I get assistance in paying my past due light bill?
Orange County’s Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is ready to assist low-income residents with their light bills. Residents can dial 2-1-1 or 3-1-1 for more information and referral to the program. SNAP recipients are eligible for this assistance.
How can I get help with childcare or youth programs while I look for work?
Orange County’s Citizens Commission for Children partners with providers that offer childcare, after-school programs, and youth development opportunities to support families seeking care for their children. For more information call 407-836-7610.
Where can I help families in need near me?
You can support families in need by donating nonperishable food items to your local food bank or a Neighborhood Center for Families closest to you. Volunteers are also needed. Commonly requested items include
- Canned fruits, vegetables, and meats
- Pasta, rice, beans, and cereal
- Baby food and formula
- Shelf-stable milk and juices
- Pet food and supplies
Where can I go to find out about resources available in the community?
A full resource directory is available on the Orange County’s Citizens Commission for Children webpage at www.ocfl.net/ccc
Where is my nearest Orange County Community Center?
Orange County’s community centers are strategically located and can provide neighborhood-specific resources to families and individuals.
- East Orange
12050 E. Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32826
407-254-9610 - Hal P. Marston
3933 W.D. Judge Drive, Suite B, Orlando, FL 32808
407-836-8484 - Holden Heights
1201 20th Street, Orlando, FL 32805
407-836-6777 - John H. Bridges
445 W. 13th Street, Apopka, FL 32703
407-254-9449 - Maxey
830 Klondike Road, Winter Garden, FL 34787
407-254-1970 - Multicultural Center
7149 W. Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32818
407-836-8404 - Pine Hills
6408 Jennings Road, Orlando, FL 32818
407-254-9100 - Taft
9450 S. Orange Avenue, Orlando, FL 32824
407-254-1950 - Tangelo Park
5160 Pueblo Street, Orlando, FL 32819
407-254-9279
Pictured L to R: Nicole Wilson, Orange County District 1 Commissioner; Maribel Gomez Cordero, Orange County District 4 Commissioner; Stephanie Palacios, Director of Advocacy & Government Relations for Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida; Jerry L. Demings, Orange County Mayor; Kelly Astro, Senior Vice President of Community Impact for Heart of Florida United Way; Eric Gray, Executive Director of the Christian Service Center for the Homeless