Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson announced a significant donation to Operation Outdoor Freedom, a program that provides recreational and rehabilitative opportunities for wounded veterans in Florida. The $100,000 donation is the largest in the program's history and was made by Dale McClellan and his family at a ceremony held at M&B Products in Tampa.
"Florida’s veterans have sacrificed so much for our freedoms, and it’s now our duty to repay that debt in every way we can. Operation Outdoor Freedom offers these heroes not only a chance to enjoy the beauty of our state but also a place for healing and connection," said Commissioner Simpson. "This historic contribution will make a tangible difference in the lives of our state’s wounded veterans, and we’re incredibly grateful to the McClellan family for their generous support. We look forward to honoring their service by continuing to provide them with these life-changing opportunities."
Operation Outdoor Freedom is supported by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) and led by the Florida Forest Service. It offers no-cost access to outdoor recreational activities for wounded veterans. Since 2009, over 900 events have been hosted, serving approximately 6,400 veterans.
Dale McClellan owns M&B Dairy in Citrus County and has longstanding ties to Florida's dairy industry. He grew up around Sunny Brook Dairy in Tampa, owned by his grandparents, before launching M&B Products in 1987.
The program has eight facilities across Florida designed specifically for wounded veterans' needs. These include bunkhouses, outdoor kitchens, dining areas, fire pits, and restrooms to ensure comfort during activities like hunting, camping, fishing, clay shooting, and other outdoor recreation events.
More information on Operation Outdoor Freedom is available at fdacs.gov/OperationOutdoorFreedom.