— ZEPHYRHILLS, Fla. (November 26, 2024) – AdventHealth Zephyrhills, in partnership with Fresh Start for Pasco and local community leaders, brought Thanksgiving a few days early to the residents of the Southern Charm RV Community through a special meal donation event. The get-together provided much-needed support to dozens of residents still recovering from the devastating effects of Hurricane Milton.
Volunteers from AdventHealth Zephyrhills distributed 100 cooked Thanksgiving meals featuring turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes with gravy and cranberry sauce during the event. Several dozen residents attended the meal, and for those unable to leave their homes due to mobility or health challenges, volunteers delivered meals directly to their doors. Every attendee also had the opportunity to take food home.
“This is a reminder that even small acts of kindness can have a big impact on those who need it most, especially during the holiday season,” Sequera said.
For Donna, a long-time Southern Charm RV resident, the meal also offered a sense of hope and connection.
“This meal was special,” she said. “It’s been very hard since the hurricane. That was the nicest Thanksgiving day meal I’ve ever had. I usually stay alone, and this was a godsend, it really was. Just the camaraderie and all that as well.”
Donna, like many others in the community, has faced repeated hardships in the wake of Hurricane Milton.
“To make a long story short, the power outage shorted my fridge, and I’ve lost my food four times through no fault of my own,” she said.
The event also showcased the important role of partnerships in disaster recovery. Chaplain Jan Martini of Fresh Start for Pasco, who played a key role in organizing the event, emphasized the importance of understanding the unique needs of the community.
“This is about more than food; it’s about bringing people together, providing comfort, and reminding everyone that they are not alone,” Martini said.
With about 70% of the RV community still working to rebuild, events like this Thanksgiving meal offer a sense of normalcy and hope, Sequera said.
AdventHealth Zephyrhills continues its mission to provide whole-person care, standing alongside the residents of Pasco County in their recovery efforts.
“This meal was a tangible way to show care and compassion,” said Mike Murrill, president and CEO of AdventHealth Zephyrhills. “It’s a privilege to serve a community that continues to demonstrate such resilience.”