The Florida Panthers have launched a powerful initiative to combat food insecurity in South Florida, partnering with Florida Blue and Harvest Drive to donate 650 meals for every goal scored at their home arena, the Amerant Bank Arena, during the regular season. This program, known as "Goals for Food," goes beyond simply putting points on the board; it aims to make a real difference in the lives of hungry residents.

Harvest Drive, a local non-profit, plays a crucial role in distributing these meals within the community. Renee Herman, the founder of Harvest Drive, expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership, highlighting its significant impact. The Panthers' commitment to this cause isn't new; their collaboration with Harvest Drive began years ago, but the "Goals for Food" program adds a dynamic element, linking the team's on-ice success to tangible community support.

During the 2023-24 season, the Panthers’ 168 home goals translated into a remarkable 109,200 meals. This season, they've already added another 26,000 meals to that total, with the number steadily climbing. Beyond the "Goals for Food" initiative, the Panthers have amplified their community involvement through various other food-focused events. Last week, during their busiest week of the year, Harvest Drive and Panthers volunteers provided comprehensive Thanksgiving meals to approximately 2,400 families. These meals included not only turkeys but also essential perishables like milk and pie, along with a $30 Walmart gift card, ensuring families had everything they needed for a complete holiday dinner.

Recognizing that food insecurity persists year-round, the Panthers designed "Goals for Food" as a sustainable, ongoing effort. John Colombo, vice president of the Florida Panthers Foundation, emphasized that hunger doesn't take a holiday. In August, the Panthers organized a food packing and distribution event with Harvest Drive, resulting in 22,000 pounds of food for 1,000 families. A pre-game food drive before their November 7th victory against the Nashville Predators yielded another 3,900 meals, thanks to the team's season-high six goals that night.

The decision to donate 650 meals per goal was a collaborative one between the Panthers, Florida Blue, and Harvest Drive, representing a significant contribution for each goal scored. The Panthers value their partnership with Harvest Drive, particularly its direct connection to South Florida schools, allowing for efficient and impactful distribution of meals directly to students in need.

The Panthers' commitment to community engagement extends beyond their own programs, as they acknowledge other NHL teams contributing to hunger relief efforts this Thanksgiving. Colombo highlighted the unique nature of the Panthers, "selling hockey in the middle of the Everglades," and emphasized the importance of community partnerships. He reiterated that while wins and losses on the ice are unpredictable, their dedication to the community remains a constant goal.