Bishop John Noonan | Diocese of Orland website

When Second Harvest Food Bank named Juan Vega as Person of the Year on October 29, 2024, he felt overwhelmed. Reflecting on his journey with Catholic Charities of Central Florida’s food pantry, Vega described the transformation as “God’s work.”

Vega joined the organization six years ago after a challenging period of job searching and caring for his late father. Initially uncertain about his decision to work at the food pantry, a conversation with a woman convinced him to stay. "Staying was one of the best decisions I ever made in my life," Vega stated.

Rising through the ranks, Vega became manager within three years and later assumed the role of director. He remarked, “I was just looking for a job, but as time went by, God was making it clear there is a reason why I am here — to fight for those who cannot fight for themselves; to make sure everything we do, we do with dignity and that we’re all in this together.”

Vega attributes much of his success to his colleagues, whom he calls “the true heroes.” He said, “I am nothing without the people I have around me. They are the ones who believed in me.”

Claudia Urdaneta, Semoran assistant food ministry manager and Vega's co-worker, received a certificate of appreciation. The Semoran Pantry was recognized as Grocery Alliance Agency of the Year by Orange County’s Second Harvest Food Bank.

Despite never wanting to take a day off because he sees “God’s work” in their efforts daily, Vega acknowledges challenges remain. In 2018-2019 alone, their efforts served about 17,000 households annually with roughly 800,000 pounds of food. Last fiscal year saw an increase to over 56,000 households fed across nine locations.

“The most rewarding part is to be part of something special,” said Vega. Yet he noted that they must find creative ways to help everyone who comes seeking assistance.