PEMBROKE PINES, Fla. — While our federal government remains shutdown, our local food nonprofits are working longer and harder every day.

It’s why on 12th annual Local 10 Day of Giving, is critical for them to meet the growing demand.

Recalling the biblical story of a miraculous provision, Louise Gigliotti draws the connection between that “bread from heaven” and her own organization.

“I believe in my heart of hearts I am here for a reason and the reason is Manna,” she said. “

For more than three decades, Manna Share-A-Meal has been feeding families from a warehouse in Davie, packing and praying over every meal before giving it away.

“It’s not just the people we serve, but it’s the people who serve that their lives are changed here and that’s what’s amazing about this place,” said Manna Share-A-Meal Lead Coordinator Jordan Marrale.

Army veteran Dennis Sheridan can attest to that.

He first came to Manna seeking food, and now volunteers every Saturday to help distribute it.

“We get a bag and a box just like everybody else, except that we like to come in and put it together and help other people,” said Sheridan.

The amount of people in need keeps growing, and Manna doesn’t receive any government assistance.

It relies on the goodness of individuals and food retailers to keep its shelves and freezers stocked.

And when supplies run low, volunteers plead for divine intervention.

And like that day long ago in the wilderness where the many asked and received, Manna is asking for more miracles on Nov. 7 during the Local 10 Day of Giving.

When donating to Manna Share-A-Meal, 100% of funds collected online go directly to the nonprofit. You can also visit them in-person this Friday, along with Local 10’s Kristi Kreuger and Linnie Supall at the Publix located at 15729 Pines Blvd.

Manna Share-A-Meal feels faith, prayer has helped them feed so many over the years

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Kristi Krueger