Marco Island pantry delivers food, hope to families in need

MARCO ISLAND, Fla.—The Our Daily Bread food pantry on Marco Island is a lifeline for many. 

What started from a small church closet has transformed into an operation feeding 1500 households each week.

Volunteers at the pantry work tirelessly to pack more than 1,100 bags of food for their weekly distribution. They are witnessing an increasing number of seniors and working families seeking assistance.

"Absolutely increased need this year, even despite everything going on, there are a lot of people still coming to us who need help," said Liz Pecora, a volunteer.

Don Pecora, another volunteer, shared a personal story of a family coping with unexpected changes. "We have grandparents that we've talked to, and they had their four grandchildren dropped off like they were puppies, and just left them with them. So now, instead of two people to feed, they have six mouths to feed," he said.

The pantry's efforts extend beyond its Saturday distribution, as it also delivers food to 25 shut-ins in the area. WINK News followed them to Goodland and met Fletcher Addison.

"I came to Goodland when I was 2 days old," said Addison.

Addison's family has lived in the area for five generations. However, health issues and limited income make it challenging for him to live on his Social Security check.

"It's tough. I mean, it's hard to make it from month to month. I usually have to borrow before the end of the month, and I just have to get by. So having the pantry there is just a true blessing that's God sent," said Addison.

Seeing his friend Don with food lifts Addison's spirits and ensures he will have meals for the week.

"You know, I've been through a lot. I've been through a lot of sorrow and pain in my life, but I just think it's all in God's hands. And you know, I'm fortunate to even be here, you know, I just thank God," said Addison.

Our Daily Bread continues to meet the growing needs of the community, providing not just food, but hope to those they serve.