Stetson University Center for Community Engagement | Community Impact

Category: Food Equity

  • Summer of Service – Pãozinho Solidário

    by Beatriz Rodrigues

    This Summer I worked with Pãozinho Solidário (solidarity bread), and it was an amazing experience. I had the chance to visit their headquarters and meet the team in person, which helped me understand the impact they’re making. The highlight of this experience was definitely being part of our outreach event in partnership with another organization focused on supporting people experiencing homelessness and their pets. We offered meals, essential care, and other services for both of them.

    I helped assemble care packages with food, hygiene supplies, and winter clothing. I also assisted with logistics, securing quotes from suppliers and donors. I also organized the food-serving volunteer team, ensuring they understood their responsibilities before and during the event.

    During the outreach, we also provided veterinary care and food for animals, and organized fun activities for the kids, with special meals and candies to make their day more enjoyable.

    It was really inspiring to see how much effort goes into every detail. Being part of this experience reminded me how small actions can make a big difference in people’s lives. It made me even more motivated to keep contributing, learning, and supporting causes like this. I’m looking forward to seeing the impact we can make together

  • Summer of Service – Abrace

    by Alice Martineli

    Working with children is one of my passions, and being able to sit, play, and talk with them is one of the most valuable experiences I’ve had during my Summer of Service.

    I am very happy to help in different ways. I’m learning so much through this experience, and I’m very grateful to be part of this work.

    Having the first contact with kids undergoing cancer treatment was challenging, but I discovered that I had so much more to gain than I was giving.

    I was able to connect with the kids from the very beginning. Each day I get more amazed by how strong each one of them is. Despite everything they’re going through, they still manage to keep a shining smile on their faces!

    I’ve also been deeply involved in building a brand-new organic garden at our new Abrace headquarters. This project has been a labor of love, designed to grow fresh, pesticide-free produce like carrots, potatoes, etc that will soon be part of the weekly food baskets we provide to families in treatment.

    What makes this initiative so meaningful to me is the long-term impact. By adding organic produce to our baskets, we are improving the quality of food they receive while actively addressing food insecurity and helping combat malnutrition among the children we support.

    This experience has reminded me of the value of small, hands-on actions. Sometimes, the most meaningful change starts with a shovel, some seeds, and a lot of love.