OCALA, Fla. - TelAve -- The United Way of Marion County, along with partners Publix Super Markets, Inc., Operation Compassion of Florida, a Wings of Faith outreach ministry, and Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida distributed 48,358 pounds of food to 762 families at the 2026 Publix Serves Day event on September 22.  189 volunteers distributed the food at the Ocala Rotary Sportsplex from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

"Our mission is to unite local resources to help our neighbors, and Publix Serves Day is a wonderful example of that mission in action. We are grateful to our partners for providing the food, the coordination to ensure a smooth distribution and the team of volunteers who gave of their time to help feed families," said Natalie McComb, president and CEO of United Way of Marion County.

"We are partnering with United Way of Marion County, Publix and Second Harvest Food Bank to do this food distribution," said Pastor Dale Broom, GO Missions Pastor of Wings of Faith Fellowship. "We are handing out 48, 358 pounds of free food."

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Publix Serves Week occurs twice annually, with the September event centered on hunger-related efforts. Publix was founded on the philosophy of service, and as a responsible corporate citizen, Publix supports efforts to improve the communities in which they operate. Publix's commitment to giving back began with the supermarket's founder, George Jenkins, who believed that for any organization to be truly successful, it must give back. Dozens of Publix associates from stores across Marion County participated in this year's event.

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About United Way of Marion County
United Way of Marion County mobilizes our community to action so all can thrive. True to
our founding spirit, whenever there is a need in our community, United Way of Marion
County is there. We bring a comprehensive approach to every challenge, actively listening
and responding to local needs. From supporting youth opportunities to addressing
financial security, growing healthy communities and building community resiliency, we're
working towards a brighter future for Marion County, Fla.

To learn more, visit https://www.uwmc.org