PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — Since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic, demand for food at area food pantries has exploded, with hundreds of families suddenly in need of basic supplies and organizations doing all they can to keep up.

“Production has tripled since this virus,” says Steven Cleveland, CEO of Florida Dream Center. 

On Saturday, the Florida Dream Center in Pinellas County made 300 boxes full of fresh food like chicken, romaine lettuce, milk, and blackberries.   

The nonprofit works to provide services for families in need, homeless individuals, veterans, and victims of human trafficking. 

“We aren’t stopping because of this virus,” says Cleveland. 

But the sheer number of people in need of their services has had Cleveland and his volunteers working overtime to keep up.

“We usually give out around 90,000 pounds of food a month, and I believe we are over 100,000 lbs already,” Cleveland explained.

Recipients like Jane Barcus certainly appreciate all that hard work.

“I have health problems, so I can’t go outside very often,” said Barcus. “Getting this box is a blessing.” 

The organization is asking the public for donations to help them continue their work. 

Cleveland says with a donation of just $12, the organization can feed four individual families. 

To learn more about Florida Dream Center's services or to make a donation, visit floridadreamcenter.org.