Winter Garden resident honored as District 1 Citizen of the Year

Winter Garden resident Hope Massey has been honored as District 1 Citizen of the Year. 

She was honored at a ceremony hosted by Orange County Government Nov. 9 at the Orange County Multicultural Center. 

Massey runs Hope Along the Way, which brings monthly food giveaways, medical services and more to the east Winter Garden area. The nonprofit is dedicated to serving the community with integrity, love, kindness and compassion, and it believes in making a positive, long-term impact on the individuals and families served by providing them with the hope and resources they need to succeed. The organization's programs and services are aimed at empowering individuals and families, while also promoting positive change in the community as a whole.

The day after Hurricane Milton, Massey put together a community feeding for folks who were most at risk of losing their food.

"On a personal level, Hope's story and friendship inspires me every day," Orange County District 1 Commissioner Nicole Wilson said. "She took the loss of her father, a legendary public servant, and used it to fuel her own desire to give back. It takes a strong person to turn a negative into a positive, and Hope Massey does that every single day. Please join me in congratulating and thanking her!"

For more information on Hope Along the Way, email [email protected] or call (321) 663-3476.