Pictured: Mary Kay and Joe Henson/ 941-379-6333.

Hunger has been an ongoing problem in our region for many years but COVID-19 has exacerbated the need in our community, leaving many families with uncertain futures. In response to a significant increase in need due to the economic impacts of the coronavirus, a $500,000 match has been provided from the Joe and Mary Kay Henson Family Fund. An anonymous donor from the Community Foundation of Sarasota County was inspired to give an additional $100,000, increasing the total to $600,000. The match became available starting August 1; All Faiths is now launching a major fundraising and social media effort to raise awareness of the need and promote the match.

“We are a family fund devoted to supporting the needs of children and adults living in poverty. The currently unemployed are a vital part of our community and key to our economic well-being,” said Joe and Mary Kay Henson. “This virus is not going away any time soon . . .  and what All Faiths Food Bank is doing is tremendously vital for these families and children. The entire community has to rally around to support and protect families during the ongoing crisis."

"In order for those most affected by the crisis to have hope for rebuilding their lives, their basic need for food must be met," said All Faiths Food Bank CEO Sandra Frank. "Hunger relief is essential to our community’s resiliency and eventual restoration in the midst of this pandemic. We are so grateful to Mary Kay and Joe and our anonymous friend for stepping up and offering such generous motivation for others to give, too."

Pictured: Mary Kay and Joe Henson/ 941-379-6333.

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