Hannah Ulloa, a 2024 graduate of Florida International University’s Robert Stempel College of Public Health & Social Work, is working to address food insecurity in South Florida through her role at Caring for Miami. The nonprofit, an initiative of Christ Fellowship Church, offers services such as a mobile food market and meal kits for public school students.
Ulloa began volunteering with Caring for Miami during her undergraduate studies. She contributed to the launch of the organization’s mobile market, which operates from a renovated county bus. Unlike traditional food banks that distribute pre-selected items, this market allows patrons to choose from a variety of fresh foods with the assistance of a “personal shopper.” Ulloa described the positive effect on participants: “They’ll come, and you’ll see on their face that they’re downcast. When they come inside [the market], their eyes brighten. They leave with a smile.”
Patrons also receive nutritional pamphlets and recipe cards created by Ulloa in partnership with ChenMed Senior Center. She explained that her academic background was instrumental in developing these materials: “Our recipe cards have different categories ranging from Cuban and Puerto Rican cuisine to breakfast options, like avocado breakfast burritos or baked banana oatmeal.” The recipes are designed to offer healthier alternatives while maintaining familiar flavors using ingredients available at the mobile market. Ulloa added, “For instance, I’ll swap out canola oil for a healthier option, such as olive or vegetable oil. We want our patrons to feel connected to their cultural meals while incorporating healthier options.” In addition, those seeking further guidance will soon be able to consult with a registered dietitian at the mobile market through the Department of Dietetics and Nutrition.
Caring for Miami also runs a weekend meals program that provides weekly kits of nonperishable food to approximately 850 students across 30 public schools. The organization recently introduced a mobile closet—a renovated school bus offering clothing—and maintains a permanent food bank at Christ Fellowship’s Palmetto Bay campus.
A recent study by No Kid Hungry Florida found that more than 72% of Floridians are struggling with grocery costs and nearly one-quarter of families have experienced multiple instances without enough food.
Ulloa emphasized the inclusive nature of Caring for Miami’s programs: “We don’t ask for income or any qualifications to be here,” she said. “Anyone can come, it’s a judgement-free zone. I know times are tough right now, and we are here to help you.”
