Local organization gives 30,000 pounds of food to community

Many locals are still recovering from Hurricane Michael, but people in Bayou George, Youngstown and Fountain say their recovery is going much slower.

"Between people losing jobs, homes or trying to save money to have your house fixed, we're a ways away from everything, it's tough," said Jessica Fisher, Fountain resident.

Many are still struggling to find resources like food and water.

That's why a local organization, A Hand Up International Global Outreach Ministries, gave out 30,000 pounds of free fresh produce, meats, potatoes and other food items to help speed things up.

"I think it's pretty helpful for large families like mine," said Bay County Resident Lianna Jones.

Jones said she has 10 people in her family so the free food goes a long way.

"It helps us make sure we have food to feed the little ones and make sure we have food and stuff for us," said Jones.

Many locals like Jones say the feel forgotten and have received little support compared to other areas in Bay County, but event organizer and A Hand Up International Global Outreach Ministries CEO, Jeanette Best, said they hope the event will let local storm victims know they're not alone.

"We just want people to come out and get food that's no strings attached. We just want to bless the community and make sure that our community is taken care of," said Best.

Best said they plan on holding another food drive later this month to give out any of the food that is left over.