With Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week approaching, here’s how our community can make a difference

Hunger and Homeless Awareness Week (November 16–22, 2025) encourages us to look beyond statistics and see the people in our own neighborhoods who are struggling to find stability. In Seminole County, homelessness affects families and individuals of all ages, and recent data shows the need for support continues to grow.

What’s happening in Seminole County

According to recent reports, 436 people were experiencing homelessness in Seminole County on a single night in January 2025. That number represents a 3.8% increase from the previous year. While the number of people living without shelter decreased slightly, from 163 in 2024 to 156 in 2025, the overall total highlights a growing need for housing support and accessible resources. [1]

For children and teens, the situation is especially concerning. Seminole County Public Schools identified 3,485 students facing homelessness in 2025, up from 2,640 in 2023—a 32% increase in just two years. Educators also report that every school in the district now serves students without stable housing, including more than 400 unaccompanied minors. [2]

These numbers include families doubling up with others, living in motels, or sleeping in cars, proof that homelessness often looks different from what people expect. 

Related resource:
The Oasis Program: Providing dignity, stability, and hope for unhoused individuals and families

The impact on our neighbors

Homelessness doesn’t just affect where someone sleeps; it impacts physical and mental health, access to education, and the ability to maintain employment. Rising housing costs, limited affordable rentals, and unexpected financial hardship all contribute to instability. 

Behind each statistic is a story: parents working multiple jobs to stay afloat, seniors on fixed incomes facing rising costs, and young adults struggling to transition out of unstable living situations.

One of those stories is Steve’s

After losing his income due to serious health issues and facing eviction, Steve and his family were just days away from losing the home they had lived in for 10 years. Through The Sharing Center’s Client Services, they received emergency rent assistance that kept them housed—and found additional support through food, clothing, and help accessing medical care for his wife.

“They came in at the last minute and saved the day,” Steve shared. “Had it not been for The Sharing Center, saving our home wouldn’t have been possible.”

Today, Steve and his family are back on their feet, reminding us that stability begins with compassion and timely help. His story represents what’s possible when the community comes together to support neighbors in crisis.

Learn more about Steve’s story

How to help locally

The Sharing Center works year-round to prevent and alleviate homelessness for Seminole County residents. Here’s how you can join in:

• Donate essentials: Nonperishable food, baby supplies, hygiene products, and gas or grocery gift cards help meet immediate needs.
• Volunteer your time: Assist with sorting donations, stocking shelves, or serving neighbors in need.
• Shop with purpose: Purchases made at The Sharing Center’s thrift, boutique, and furniture stores directly fund programs that help families regain stability.
• Give today and double your impact: Thanks to a special matching gift challenge, every dollar you give will be matched, dollar-for-dollar—up to $150,000—through December 31. Once that goal is met, a second donor will contribute an additional $150,000, unlocking up to $450,000 to care for our neighbors in need.

Volunteers who make it possible

Volunteers are at the heart of The Sharing Center’s mission. James and Linda Clifton, longtime residents of Debary, have been serving faithfully since early 2024—helping each week in the Distribution Center and leading Community Food Distributions.

“Our mission field isn’t far away, it’s right here in our community,” Linda shared. “Every hour and every dollar matters. When we all add our drop in the bucket, together we can overflow it with blessings for those in need.”

Their dedication serves as a reminder that even small acts of service can create significant waves of change.

Coming together for change

Homelessness is a community issue that requires a community response. As Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week reminds us, even small acts of compassion, whether through donations, volunteering, or advocacy, can make a lasting difference for a neighbor in need.

Join us at The Sharing Center in supporting individuals and families in need across Seminole County.

Give today, and your gift will be doubled—creating twice the impact for our neighbors in need.

1: Central Florida Public Media | New Survey: Central Florida lagging in solutions for its homeless
2: News 6 | Homeless Seminole County students surge 32% in 2 years