GLADES COUNTY, Fla. — Glades County volunteers are tirelessly working to feed families grappling with the aftermath of Hurricane Milton. The devastation left by recent tornadoes has spurred a remarkable display of community unity.
Around-the-clock volunteer efforts are ensuring that food reaches those affected by the storm. Just last week, tornadoes cause extensive damage, wiping out homes and leaving many families in dire need of support. In response, the Glades County School District has mobilized its staff and local volunteers to assemble hundreds of meals, one heartfelt box at a time.
Glades County volunteers work to feed families after Hurricane Milton
“We probably had 25 to 30 people show up, from school board members to local residents,” remarked Mark Wilson, a dedicated food service professional involved in the initiative. “We couldn’t keep up with putting the food out fast enough,” he shared, highlighting the overwhelming need for assistance.
Wilson reflected on the significance of their work, stating that they have already packed over 2,000 meals for their neighbors. In his eyes, Glades County is not just a place on a map; it’s a community, humble yet tenacious, that holds great value. “People don’t take anything for granted,” he noted. “When we show up, they’re so appreciative of everything we’ve done. It fuels us to keep going.” The sacrifices he makes—driving an hour each way daily—stem from a deep-rooted commitment to local children and families.
Dr. Alice Barfield, the Glades County School Superintendent, shared how volunteers will pair meals with cupcakes, distributing them with care, street by street. It may seem like a small gesture, but for many, it signifies compassion in a time of crisis. “We had so many community members who were just blindsided by this,” Barfield said, recalling the unexpected severity of last week’s storm, “You prepare for a hurricane, and you’ve heard of tornadoes, but this was unprecedented.”
Meals will continue to be served through Tuesday at various locations, including Ortana Community Center, Lakeport Christian Church, Buckhead Ridge Community, Moore Haven, and Muse. Barfield emphasized, “This is going to impact us for years. It affected crops, it affected seasons. Yet, there is strength in our community. We’re banding together, and we’ll recover because we care deeply about each other.”
As a random but uplifting fact, floral blooms from the region have long symbolized resilience, characterized by their ability to thrive despite challenges. The spirit of Glades County mirrors this—rooted in love, determination, and an unwavering commitment to rise despite the odds. Through the efforts of volunteers, hope flourishes amidst the adversity, rekindling hearts in this close-knit locality.
