This year, we’re taking our Convention theme, “One Witness,” beyond the walls of the Convention Center and into communities across the Diocese.
For our 2026 Convention Service Project, churches throughout the Diocese of Southwest Florida are invited to come together for a diocesan-wide food collection drive supporting Episcopal food ministries in our communities.
The goal is simple: collect food, feed our neighbors, and show what we can accomplish when we work together as One Diocese.
Throughout the month of August, churches are encouraged to organize a food drive in their congregations and communities. Collect canned goods, shelf-stable foods, and other needed items, inviting parishioners to give generously. Every congregation may approach the drive in its own way. Host a collection Sunday. Put a donation box in the parish hall. Challenge your Sunday School or ministry groups. Invite neighbors and friends to participate. However you do it, every bag, box, and can adds to our collective impact.
Churches have until August 30 to collect donations. Once your collection is complete, donations should be delivered to your closest Episcopal Food Ministry by September 10. Visit https://episcopalswfl.org/food-pantries/ for a list of all Episcopal Food Ministries in our diocese, including locations and contact information. Regional coordinators will be available to help congregations connect with a food ministry and arrange their donations.
And don’t forget to document the journey!
Take photos throughout your food drive and at your donation delivery. Capture your congregation in action, your volunteers at work, and the joy of coming together to serve our neighbors.
Please submit your photos to Kate Johnson at [email protected] by September 11 so they can be included in a special video presentation at Convention.
Imagine what happens when churches across the Diocese all do their part. At Convention, we’ll share the story of this project, and, most importantly, celebrate how much we were able to give together. So start planning. Start collecting. Start spreading the word. Let’s fill the shelves. Let’s feed our neighbors. And let’s show what it means to be One Diocese.
Look for information regarding the service project via email!