Manatee County Launches Food Drive to Help Local Families in Need

MANATEE COUNTY — Manatee County is partnering with local community organizations to host a Nourish Our Neighbors Food Drive to help stock local food pantries and support families facing food insecurity.

Residents are encouraged to donate nonperishable food and household items at designated collection sites including any Manatee County Library Branch or Manatee County Administration Building (1112 Manatee Avenue W. in Bradenton and 9000 Town Center Parkway in Lakewood Ranch) and the GT Bray Recreation Center (5502 33rd Avenue Drive W. in Bradenton) beginning next week. All donations will directly benefit local families in need.

Most Needed Items Include:

• Cereal and cereal bars
• Canned tuna, chicken, or meat
• Peanut butter
• Canned fruits (in juice) and vegetables (low/no sodium)
• Canned soup and chili
• Pasta and pasta sauce
• Shelf-stable milk
• Whole-grain cereal and oatmeal
• Brown rice
• Baking mixes and cooking oil
• Salad dressings and tomato sauce
• Personal hygiene items and household cleaners

“These donations go a long way in helping our neighbors put nutritious meals on the table,” said Manatee County Community and Veterans Services Director Sarah Brown. “Every item collected makes a real difference for a local family.”

Donations will be accepted beginning Nov. 3, 2025, until further notice. For more information, visit https://mealsonwheelsplus.org/.