Operation Hope in Fellsmere needs volunteers to distribute food and school supplies

FELLSMERE — Operation Hope in Fellsmere needs volunteers as the organization provides food, clothing and basic supplies to Treasure Coast families.

Founded in 1997, Operation Hope of Greater Florida distributes food monthly to families in need. The organization also collects school supplies in August, turkeys in November and toys in December.

Volunteers are needed to help in all areas, said founder Jesse Zermeno.

"We are always looking for volunteers to help us make our vision a reality. We'll help you find a way to volunteer that best suits you. We're excited to have you join the team," the nonprofit's website said.

Operation Hope's mission is "to make a difference in the lives of laborers, families and anyone who wishes to be assisted," according to the website. "Operation Hope seeks to improve the sometimes-desperate living conditions of those that labor tirelessly."

The organization plans for months for its annual school supply distribution in August, he said. Operation Hope currently is partnered with 13 churches and community leaders to collect backpacks, pencils, crayons, paper and supplies children need. Volunteers are needed to help organize the donations and prepare for the distribution event, he said.

Volunteers also are needed to drive to collect food donations. Operation Hope distributes food monthly to families in need, he said.

"There's a lot of food that's coming in," Zermeno said.

Turkey shortage affecting Operation Hope's annual Thanksgiving food giveaway Saturday

School supplies and food giveaway for needy families hosted by Operation Hope in Fellsmere

Fellsmere Volunteer Medical Clinic opens twice weekly at Operation Hope to help needy adults

Operation Hope relies on its volunteers to help operate, Zermeno said. Volunteers are needed to staff the office, at 12285 County Road 512 in Fellsmere; clean facilities and even landscape the building's exterior, he said.

"It doesn't matter (what a person's skill level is)," he said. "Everyone is welcome."

Anyone interested in volunteering at Operation Hope should call Zermeno, 321-403-2604.

Colleen Wixon is the education reporter for TCPalm/Treasure Coast Newspapers. Contact her at colleen.wixon@tcpalm.com.

This article originally appeared on Treasure Coast Newspapers: Operation Hope in Fellsmere needs volunteers to distribute food and school supplies