BREAKING: Metropolitan Ministries is set to launch its annual holiday outreach with the opening of its holiday tents on Monday, November 6, 2023, as a crucial support system for families in need across the Tampa Bay region. This year, the organization is responding to a staggering increase in demand for food assistance, with the number of families seeking help having doubled.
The rise in requests for assistance stems from several factors, including escalating housing costs, ongoing financial struggles from the pandemic, the impact of recent hurricanes, and the ramifications of the current government shutdown. Officials from Metropolitan Ministries are urging the community to step up and volunteer as the need for support continues to grow.
“They receive the whole turkey and supplies for their family, and then when Christmas rolls around, they get toys for their kids as well,” said Christine Long, Executive Vice President and Chief Programs Officer of Metropolitan Ministries.
Long emphasized that the start of the holiday tent season is a vital opportunity for families facing hardships. “It’s an opportunity for families who may be struggling to really get some of those basic needs met and make their holiday full of hope and love,” she stated.
The holiday tents will be operational in Hillsborough, Pasco, and Pinellas counties starting Monday, offering essential donations and assistance. To meet the surging demand, the organization aims to mobilize 15,000 volunteers and distribute over 1 million pounds of food, along with 60,000 toys and gift cards to families in need.
Long also highlighted the urgency of registration for families, noting that slots for Thanksgiving assistance are filling up rapidly. “Registering ahead of time is critical. I heard that we only have a couple more days left of slots for Thanksgiving,” she added.
Families can register for assistance either in person or through the organization’s official website. The community’s support is crucial, as Metropolitan Ministries relies heavily on donors and collaborative partners to make this outreach successful.
As the holiday season approaches, the need for assistance is more pressing than ever. Authorities encourage local residents to volunteer and donate, ensuring that families in the Tampa Bay area can celebrate the holidays with the essential items they need.
For those looking to help, Metropolitan Ministries is calling for donations and volunteers to join in this vital mission. The next few days will be critical in preparing for an impactful holiday season.
