By Heather Bennett Eye
We want to recognize the compassion and tireless work the volunteers and organizers of our local food banks, churches, and nonprofits pour into addressing food insecurity by providing meals for our community. You provide more than meals; you provide dignity, hope, and comfort for families during their hardest moments. Your kindness strengthens our neighborhoods and reminds us that even in challenging times, generosity and care can make a profound difference.
Food insecurity is not a distant issue. It affects families, neighbors, coworkers, and friends in Walton County. It’s not always visible and can touch more lives than we realize. It can affect anyone – families working multiple jobs, seniors on fixed incomes, students, single parents, and those facing sudden illnesses, job loss or other hardships. It’s a reminder that life can shift unexpectedly.
Caring and Sharing of South Walton fed 1,000 families in October, which was the largest number in their 30 years of operation. As of the end of October, Emerald Coast Food Rescue had distributed 2.35 million pounds of rescued food, which is a 23% increase compared to that time in 2024. Food for Thought is expecting a 20% increase in requests for support this holiday season, which is 140 more families in addition to the 700 they already serve.
When someone in our community struggles to access healthy food, it can affect their physical health, mental and emotional health, and overall well-being. Acknowledging that food insecurity exists close to home reminds us that compassion, awareness, and support matter. We are deeply grateful for the hearts of those serving others, and for the positive impact you continue to create. Thank you for all that you do. By standing together, we can help ensure that no one in our community faces hunger alone.
Please consider reaching out to an organization near you to see how you can serve our community through donating or volunteering.
Caring and Sharing of South Walton – 112 Lynn Drive, Santa Rosa Beach, (850) 267-2866: Food distributions are twice a month on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Hearts & Hands Food Pantry by First Baptist Church of DeFuniak Springs – Tri-County Building at 105 W Main Avenue, DeFuniak Springs, (850) 892-2722: Food distribution is every Friday 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.
First Methodist Church of DeFuniak Springs – 88 Circle Drive, DeFuniak Springs, (850) 892-5332: Upcoming food distributions will be on November 20 and December 18, 9 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.; otherwise, distributions are on the second and fourth Thursdays of the month, 9 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
Food for Thought – 2132 US-90, DeFuniak Springs, (850) 290-4056: Food distribution to students on the Free/Reduced Lunch Program are Mondays, 4 p.m. – 6 p.m. at 132 Market Street, Santa Rosa Beach and Tuesdays, 8:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. at 2132 US Hwy 90 W DeFuniak Springs.
Helping Hands (Southwide Baptist) – 1307 Coy Burgess Loop, DeFuniak Springs, (850) 892-3835: Food distribution is on Mondays, 12 p.m. – 3 p.m., based on when the food truck arrives, and on availability.
The Matrix COC – 37 North 9th Street, DeFuniak Springs, (850) 892-1090: Food distributions are weekly, but not on a fixed schedule due to timing and availability of food deliveries. Call (850) 892-1090 Monday – Friday 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. for more information.
New Life Adventist – 532 Lakeview Drive, DeFuniak Springs, (850) 892-7777: Food distribution is on Mondays, and registration starts at 4:30 p.m.
Open Door Food Pantry – 24388 US 331, Santa Rosa Beach, (850) 685-0684: Food distribution is very Saturday from 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
