The organization he founded has donated 13,000 pounds of food to hungry people in Broward in just two years ago, but James Flaig is not about to rest on his laurels.
“This is the time to do as much as we can,” said Flaig, who is Joey to his friends. “Because of the economy being the way it is, the number of people needing help is increasing by the day. Quite a few of my friends have parents who have lost their jobs due to the recession. Food banks are taking a hit too. They are not getting as much donations as they used to.”
Can-Teens, which is dedicated to providing hunger relief by supporting food banks in Broward, wants to donate 20,000 pounds of food this year, said Flaig, a Coral Springs resident. “There is no reason anyone should go hungry. Luckily, there are many people and organizations trying to help people in need. I believe Can-Teens plays a big role; we are a big part of the answer.”
The organization currently has 50 members. “The number has steadily increased in the last few months. We support the Cooperative Feeding Program, Broward Outreach, Pantry of Broward, Jubilee Center, and the City of Sunrise Food Pantry. We are also involved with Volunteer Broward’s “Field the Food Program.”
After making Can-Teens work in his school, American Heritage School in Plantation, Flaig has now set his eyes on expanding the program all over Florida. “My goal this year is to find a way for every high school in the State to adopt a food bank. I have spoken to State Rep. Ari Porth and we intend to make it happen.”