HISTORY: NDCO was founded in 2004 by Debra Thomas as a feeding program for homeless people in Seminole County, Florida. Once homeless herself, Debra made it her life's purpose to ease the misery of life on the streets for others. What began as a small coterie donating food and blankets, expanded into an organization recognized by the community as a celebrated saving grace, aiding thousands of less fortunate individuals and families with food, financial assistance and scholarship opportunities throughout the years.

PURPOSE: Each year, the rate of families and children living in poverty rapidly increases. As a result, NDCO volunteers must boost their efforts dramatically to keep up with the demand. In order to better assist individuals in need, the non-profit organization strives to offer a multitude of activities and tools for subsistence, as well as providing additional resources and programs to those in need. For clients who are suffering economically and emotionally, NDCO combines life skills training with compassionate services and nurturing relationships that serve as the basis for a better community.

FUTURE: NDCO continues to strengthen its commitment in providing

Compassionate services for the needy and hopes to raise a new generation

of extraordinary leaders under our tutelage and support. NDCO is creating

more services and events in 2011, in addition to established programs such

as the

with the opening of the new Amway Center, NDCO recently kicked off its latest ongoing fundraiser: volunteers will run a concession stand at major events, with 12% of profits going to feeding the hungry, helping clients gain access to government programs and providing financial assistance to those in need.