For three days, local first responders did something many thought impossible: they said no to donuts.
The sacrifice was all for a good cause during the ninth annual Manna Donut Strike, an event that brings firefighters and law enforcement officers together each year to fight hunger.
Stationed outside grocery stores throughout Escambia and Santa Rosa counties, they encouraged shoppers to donate healthy, non-perishable food and financial gifts to help children, families, seniors, veterans, and individuals facing food insecurity.
When the final donations were counted, the community had helped provide the equivalent of 47,895 healthy meals for neighbors in need!
The event also featured a little friendly competition among participating agencies, with Escambia County Fire Rescue earning the title of 2026 Donut Strike Champion after collecting the most pounds of food and the highest dollar amount in donations. The department was recognized today for its outstanding commitment to the cause.
But this victory belonged to the entire first responder community. A heartfelt thank you goes to Escambia County Fire Rescue, Escambia County Sheriff’s Office, Gulf Breeze Fire Rescue, Gulf Breeze Police Department, Midway Fire District, Pace Fire Rescue District, Pensacola Fire Department, Pensacola Police Department, and Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office. Together, they showed that serving the community doesn’t stop when the emergency call ends; it continues through acts of compassion that make a lasting difference.
This year’s success would not have been possible without the generosity of countless donors, volunteers, and the dedicated team at Manna, along with event sponsors Hanto + Clarke General Contractors and PenAir Credit Union, and J’s Bakery & Café, whose donuts became the very treats first responders ate this morning to celebrate.
Since its launch nine years ago, the Donut Strike has generated the equivalent of more than a quarter-million meals, providing hope and nourishment to thousands of local families across Northwest Florida.
The Donut Strike has become much more than a fun annual tradition. It is a reminder of what makes our community special: neighbors helping neighbors, businesses giving back, and first responders finding yet another way to serve.
Congratulations to everyone who participated, donated, volunteered, and cheered them on. Nearly 48,000 meals represent more than numbers. It represents full plates and hopeful hearts.
