Stephanie Bowman survived severe domestic violence, struggled with addiction, experienced homelessness with her two children, and eventually lost custody of them. She is now founder and CEO of One Heart for Women and Children, an organization described as feeding and supporting more than 20,000 people in Central Florida every month.
In a podcast interview, Bowman recounted escaping her abuser with her children in the middle of the night, the moment described as inspiring the creation of the organization. She also discussed a lesson from a mentor that changed how she saw herself, and her work now as a mentor bringing other women into new spaces to build confidence.
After a trailer used to collect thousands of Christmas gifts was stolen, Bowman made a plea for help, and the response from the Orlando community allowed the group to give presents, gift cards and diapers to more than 12,000 children. The organization runs what the interview describes as the largest food pantry in Central Florida, which Bowman views as a temporary safety net that helps families keep their houses and cars. She also described teaching a volunteer that no one should be turned away, because a nice car can be the last thing a person has left.
Press release issued by Winter Park Chamber of Commerce:
https://www.winterpark.org/2026/07/07/from-homeless-to-helping-20000-a-month-an-interview-with-the-founder-of-one-heart-for-women-children/
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