501cTV invites back Jason Mandle, the new executive director of Restoration Bridge, highlights the organization’s commitment to combating food insecurity in Palm Beach County. Under his leadership and with founder Pastor Dan West’s support, Restoration Bridge aims to distribute nearly 13 million pounds of donated food this year. The organization has moved to a larger facility near the South Florida Fairgrounds to enhance its operations, which include significant space for both dry goods and perishables. After outgrowing their shared warehouse, they received assistance from local law enforcement to secure a new location.

Daily operations begin at 5 AM, with four vans collecting surplus food from up to 45 retail stores, addressing logistical issues that contribute to food waste. Collaboration with Feeding South Florida and various retailers allows Restoration Bridge to focus on efficient food redistribution through about 30 distribution events each month, serving approximately 100,000 individuals in an area where around 200,000 people experience food insecurity. Their mission emphasizes accountability in food distribution while seeking to expand their impact through community partnerships, including collaboration with law enforcement.

The partnership with the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s office has evolved from emergency food distributions to initiatives supporting community policing, helping identify families in need and fostering trust between local organizations and law enforcement, contributing to crime reduction. Recent efforts at the Boynton Beach Mall have significantly increased food distribution, providing assistance to 1,500 families weekly.

In response to rising grocery prices, Restoration Bridge is expanding operations and hiring new staff, providing supplemental food boxes with essential items. They seek to reduce costs through volunteer hours and donations, planning future fundraising events as they establish their new location. Volunteers are needed for food distribution roles from Tuesday to Saturday, with more information available on their website, restorationbridge.com. The organization expresses gratitude for community support and emphasizes the importance of financial contributions and volunteer efforts to grow their initiatives.