OPA-LOCKA, Fla. — Since 2007, Make-A-Wish Veterans has been feeding American war veterans and struggling families in Opa-locka.
But the nonprofit’s executive director, Princess Fuller, is quick to point out this year is unlike any other.
“We’re seeing a bigger crowd,” said Fuller. “It’s tripled the time from last year.”
Make-A-Wish Veterans is now serving 350 people each week. That’s up from 150 last year.
Fuller attributes the increase to the housing crisis, loss of employment and SNAP benefits. The government shutdown has only exacerbated the problem.
“A lot of times we just put together our own personal funds to keep the overhead and to keep the food pantry going,” added Fuller.
Local 10 spoke with 82-year-old Elijah, who’s on a fixed income and depends on Make-A-Wish to put food on the table. Our crew also met Tashura Smith, who walks to the pantry every Friday to feed her family.
“As soon as I get the box, they will be munching already,” said Tashura about her kids. “At least for one week.”
When Arely Khalil fell on hard times, Make-A-Wish Veterans came to her rescue.
“I got sick and this is why I got to know them and since then I’ve been coming, because it’s really good things here that we can use at home,” said Khalil.
Make-A-Wish Veterans receives its food supply mostly from large food banks and provides boxes with at least four days’ worth of groceries.
Fuller tells us more support is needed to keep the lights on.
“We’re looking for much help,” said Fuller. “We are looking to supply at least 80 to 100 thanksgiving baskets to people.”
Those are people who bravely fought for our freedom. Make-A-Wish is hoping the Local 10 Day of Giving can make a difference.
“Today 2025 is the big need, and hunger does not stop,” added Fuller.
The Local 10 Day of Giving will be running all day on Friday, November 7. Local 10’s Will Manso and Betty Davis will be joining the organization at the Publix store in Miami Shores, located at 9050 Biscayne Boulevard. You can take your nonperishable food donations to them or click here to make a safe monetary donation.
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