Beginning on Thursday, Sept. 17, Meals on Wheels Plus of Manatee, through The Food Bank of Manatee, will provide fresh produce each month to families in need in Manatee County. The program will run September 2020 through May 2021. The initiative is aimed at getting fresh, nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables into Manatee County homes. A grant from United Way Suncoast makes the program possible.

Locations near Blackburn Elementary, Daughtrey Elementary, Oneco Elementary, Rogers Garden Elementary, Samoset Elementary and Tillman Elementary have been identified, though families living anywhere in Manatee County can participate. The produce will be provided free of charge on the third Thursday of the month at the following locations:

• Visible Men Academy:  921 63^rd Ave. E., Bradenton,  from 8-10 a.m.
• Sozo Missions: 3124 17^th St. E., Bradenton 34208, 8-10 a.m.
• Increasing Joy Ministries: 2515 37^th St. E., Palmetto, 12:30-2:30 p.m.