At the Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida's Melbourne location, 3125 Skyway Circle, volunteers and staff work nonstop to sort and package donated food. The facility, which opened in 2018, is one of six locations across Central Florida and serves more than 300,000 meals each day to residents in Brevard and surrounding counties. On Nov. 4, 2026, photographers captured workers moving boxes of pasta, canned vegetables, and bread across the warehouse floor.
The food bank relies on donations from local grocery stores, restaurants, and individuals. According to its website, 75% of the food distributed comes from grocery retailers. Volunteers like Juanita Morales, a regular since 2021, said the pace has picked up in recent months. 'We’re seeing more families needing help,' she said. 'But we’ve got a good team here.'
The Melbourne site employs 28 full-time staff and averages 150 volunteers weekly. Operations begin at 6:30 a.m. and run until 3 p.m. each day. Food is sorted by type, then packed into boxes for distribution to 160 partner agencies, including churches, shelters, and senior centers. The food bank also operates a mobile pantry that visits underserved areas in Brevard County twice a month.
Despite the high volume, the facility faces challenges. A 2025 report noted a 12% increase in demand compared to 2023, driven by rising rent and utility costs. The food bank has applied for a $2 million state grant to expand its warehouse space. 'We’re doing our best to keep up,' said a spokesperson. 'But the need keeps growing.'