BROWARD COUNTY, FL – Feeding South Florida is an organization, known for giving. But on Tuesday, they were the recipient of a large $10,800 donation from Broward Vice Mayor Steve Geller. According to Feeding South Florida, approximately $1 feeds nine people.
“This will really make an impact on 250,000 individuals who are struggling to put food on the table for Broward County,” said Paco Velez, President and CEO of Feeding South Florida.
“Feeding insecurity is a real problem. Feeding South Florida is the largest supplier of food in Broward County. I hope this donation helps those who are hungry and encourages others to donate,” said Commissioner Geller.
When Vice Mayor Geller was elected to the County Commission in 2016, he placed $20,000 of excess campaign funds into a County Office Account, as allowed by Florida Statutes. The funds can be used to spend on things such as constituent events, County approved travel, mileage, etc. Because Geller has been frugal in his Commission spending, he has over $10,800 left in that account. Geller decided to contribute the entire balance to Feeding South Florida. Please note that these are not taxpayer funds, this is money left over from private contributions to Geller’s 2016 campaign.
“Food insecurity is one of the biggest issues facing Broward County, especially during the COVID-19 outbreak, with high unemployment rates. They know how to stretch a dollar. Because of their relationships with many non-profits, farmers, etc., they are able to give over 98% of their contributions to programs. I feel good that this contribution will provide almost 100,000 meals to hungry South Floridians,” said Geller.
Geller also made contributions from funds saved from his 2020 County Commission campaign to organizations such as Hispanic Unity, Legal Aide of Broward County, American Cancer Society, Good Karma Pet Rescue, Urban League of Broward County, Boys and Girls Club, Everglades Foundation, Funding Arts of Broward County, the Jewish National Fund and the Florida Democratic Party.
Sept. 9, 2020
Media Contact:
Kimberly Maroe
Public Information Mgr.
Broward County Commission
(954) 357-8053