Sept. 22, 2026 — For Sustainability Programs Coordinator Dolmecia Fleming, Hunger Action Month is deeply personal. Growing up in Lakeland, Florida, she experienced days when food and housing were uncertain.
As a child, she remembers standing in line at food pantries, grateful for groceries that helped her family through another week. Long before she knew Publix as a grocery store or workplace, she knew it through the food that helped feed her family.
“I didn’t know the Publix name because of the stores,” said Dolmecia. “I knew it because Publix products were part of the donations we would receive from the pantry.”
Dolmecia became a mother at a young age. While navigating the responsibilities of raising a child, she remained determined to create a brighter future for her family. One opportunity at a time, she began building a new path.
Eventually, that path led her to Publix, where she started in our Lakeland distribution center as a selector and then worked in our stores in customer service. Along the way, Dolmecia used our tuition reimbursement benefit to continue her education and create new opportunities. Today, she’s part of Publix’s sustainability team, helping lead initiatives that support our commitment to care for people, communities and the environment.
A seat at the table
For Dolmecia, giving back isn’t something she does just for work. It’s her life’s purpose. In 2017, she founded Angels of Destiny Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to empowering young girls and supporting families facing difficult circumstances. Inspired by her own experiences with homelessness and hunger, the organization provides hope, encouragement and practical support to the people who need it most. Today, that mission often looks like a simple meal shared with dignity.
Throughout Polk County, volunteers with Angels of Destiny regularly serve community dinners and volunteer at local food pantries. Dolmecia wants those meals to be more than just food on a plate. She sets tables with linens and thoughtful touches because she believes every person deserves to feel valued.
“For someone facing a difficult season, being welcomed to a beautifully set table and a wholesome meal can be a reminder that they matter,” said Dolmecia. “Everyone deserves that.”
A legacy of caring
Her heart for service has become a family legacy. Dolmecia now has three children, including a 13-year-old son who frequently volunteers alongside her. While she’s grateful her children haven’t experienced the same hardships she faced, she hopes they will carry forward a lesson she learned early on: When people lift you up, you help lift others.
Years ago, Dolmecia was a child receiving help — and hope — from her community. Today, she’s helping others find both.
“I haven’t forgotten what it feels like to need help,” she said. “If sharing my story or serving a meal helps someone believe brighter days are ahead, then it’s all worth it.”