Our Work - Farmers Feeding Florida
Fresh milk is one of the most requested foods by families facing hunger, and one of the most difficult for food banks to source due to cost, refrigeration, and strict handling requirements. At the same time, Florida’s dairy farmers face seasonal market disruptions that can limit access to higher-value fluid milk markets, particularly during periods when traditional institutional demand declines.
Through years of collaboration with Florida’s dairy industry, Farmers Feeding Florida developed a dairy distribution model that creates a reliable in-state outlet for fresh milk while strengthening returns for producers. By partnering directly with processors and cooperatives, the program helps ensure more Florida milk remains in Florida communities — supporting farm viability while delivering essential nutrition to families.
Strategic state investment allows Feeding Florida to purchase fresh milk during periods of surplus, including times when school demand is reduced, helping stabilize the market and providing an additional pathway for producers to receive Class I value. Leveraging our statewide network of food banks and community partners, we distribute fresh milk to families across Florida, ensuring children and households continue to have access to this critical source of nutrition year-round.
Florida’s dairy industry is powered by 35 farm families managing approximately 45 dairy farms across the state. Together, they care for nearly 100,000 dairy cows and produce between 250 and 300 million gallons of milk each year.
Despite this significant production, Florida is considered a “milk deficit” state, meaning local production still does not meet the demand of Florida’s growing population. To keep grocery shelves stocked, the state relies heavily on milk transported from other parts of the country.
At the same time, dairy farming operates on a continuous cycle. Cows must be milked every day, regardless of market conditions or seasonal demand. During periods when demand drops—especially in the summer months when schools are out—farmers can face an oversupply of milk with limited outlets for distribution.
Without a reliable way to move that surplus milk, farmers can experience major financial losses. Feeding Florida helps bridge that gap by connecting excess milk with families experiencing hunger across the state. This effort not only helps provide nutritious food to Floridians in need, but also supports Florida dairy farmers and strengthens the state’s food supply chain during times of market instability.
According to data from the Florida Dairy Farmers, milk contains 13 essential nutrients the human body cannot produce on its own and must consume through diet. This unique nutrient-dense profile makes dairy incredibly important for growth, development, and overall health across all life stages, not just childhood.
Picture dairy intake like a bank… a bone bank. When it comes to bone health, 90-95% of bone mass is set by age 20, making the calcium and Vitamin D in milk critical for both children and adolescents. That bone bank will then supply a person for the rest of their lives.
For pregnant mothers and women, the B vitamins in milk help the body use carbs, fats, and protein for fuel, while iodine supports fetal brain development during pregnancy. It’s one of the most requested items at our food banks, especially for families, and its presence often enhances the overall quality and perceived value of the food being distributed.
Director of Agriculture Relations
