Winter Park, FL — Jewish Family Services of Greater Orlando (JFS Orlando) has received a substantial in-kind donation of bottled water—21 pallets totaling more than 43,000 pounds—from a generous local company, bolstering critical resources for Central Florida families as hurricane season approaches. The donation will directly support the Pearlman Food Pantry, one of Orlando’s most vital community resources for individuals and families facing food insecurity. Water is consistently one of the pantry’s most requested and most difficult items to keep stocked, and demand increases significantly during storm season when emergency preparedness becomes essential. “This donation could not come at a more important time,” said Philip Flynn III, President of Jewish Family Services of Greater Orlando. “This gift ensures that our neighbors can be better prepared, safer, and more secure during hurricane season.”
A Community Effort in Action
The journey of this donation is also a powerful example of nonprofit collaboration in Central Florida. When the water shipment first arrived, it could not be unloaded due to the delivery truck lacking a lift—posing a significant logistical challenge. Without hesitation, Catholic Charities of Central Florida stepped in to assist. With coordination led by Juan Vega, Director of Food Ministries, Catholic Charities agreed to receive the shipment, unload all 21 pallets, and transport the water to JFS Orlando using their own trucks. “They were happy to help—and this isn’t the first time,” said Heather Petrusky, JFS Orlando’s Assistant Director. “This kind of partnership speaks volumes about the strength of our nonprofit community. When one organization faces a challenge, others step up. Together, we can serve more people, more effectively.”
A Lifeline for the Community
JFS Orlando’s Pearlman Food Pantry serves hundreds of households each month, providing not only shelf-stable food and fresh items, but also essential staples like bottled water, hygiene products, and household necessities. More than just a place to receive food, the pantry is designed to offer a dignified, welcoming experience that meets people where they are—whether they are navigating a temporary hardship or facing ongoing challenges.
As food costs and living expenses continue to rise across Central Florida, the need for pantry services has grown steadily. Donations like this one allow JFS Orlando to respond quickly and effectively to community needs, particularly during times of crisis.
Preparing for What Lies Ahead
With hurricane season on the horizon, this donation of 21 pallets of water will help ensure that JFS Orlando can meet increased demand, distribute supplies efficiently, and support community resilience in the face of potential storms.
“We are deeply grateful to our community partners who recognize the importance of this work,” added Flynn. “It’s through these collaborations that we are able to stand ready—not just for today’s needs, but for tomorrow’s uncertainties.”
If you need food assistance, please call (407) 644-7593 or if you would like to support JFS Orlando and their FAMILY of Services, please ask for Noreen Levitt, Director of Development.
