WPHF Provides $35,000 to Support School Pantries amid SNAP Uncertainty

For students, not having enough to eat affects much more than lunchtime. Going hungry can make it harder to focus, participate, and learn.

This past fall, as families across Florida faced disruptions to the SNAP benefits they rely on for food, the Winter Park Health Foundation wanted to help.

WPHF already funds free student health services in 14 Orange County Public Schools, so that’s where we turned, providing $35,000 to help those schools restock their pantries or meet other food-related needs.

At Winter Park High School, Willie’s Mart shows what that support looks like in action: a community-driven space where students can find food, clothing, and other essentials at no cost.

“It’s not just about food,” said Dr. Michael Meechin, Principal of Winter Park High School. “It’s about stability, trust, and giving every student a real opportunity to succeed.” Because Food Is Health.