The Southeastern Food Bank is set to expand its mission of feeding families in need by implementing solar energy, thanks to a generous donation from Freedom Solar Power.
Freedom Solar has installed a $113,000 solar array at the food bank’s facility in Winter Garden. CEO Mark Anthony states that this initiative will help reduce energy costs and support their objective of providing food to 50,000 food-insecure children, seniors, and families in Central Florida this holiday season.
“With rising inflation in 2022, many families are finding it increasingly difficult to afford essential food items, making it crucial to support those in need as we approach the holiday giving season,” commented Bret Biggart, CEO of Freedom Solar. “We are proud to collaborate with Southeastern Food Bank in their vital mission to combat hunger in Central Florida.”
The installation includes 71 solar panels mounted on the roof of the dry storage warehouse, capable of generating over 47,200 kilowatt-hours of clean electricity each year. This renewable energy will account for approximately 70% of the nonprofit’s annual energy consumption.
The food bank anticipates saving $236,000 in energy expenses over the system’s lifespan, enabling them to provide meals for an additional 800 local families. Importantly, this solar installation required no out-of-pocket expense for the Southeastern Food Bank.
“By reducing our rising electricity costs, we’ll be able to extend our services and assist hundreds more families across the 26 counties that rely on us. I want to express my gratitude to Bret and his team for making this project a reality,” said Anthony.
This Thanksgiving, the food bank plans to distribute meals to 1,200 families at West Orlando Baptist Church, located at 1006 E. Crown Point Road, starting at 8 a.m.