Metropolitan Ministries targets 1 million pounds of food for record holiday surge
More than 30,000 families in Hillsborough, Pasco, and Pinellas counties need emergency aid this season, prompting the organization to recruit 15,000 volunteers after a recent theft.
By Ayanda Boateng ·
Metropolitan Ministries is preparing to distribute a record 1 million pounds of food and 60,000 toys across Tampa Bay this holiday season. The nonprofit expects more than 30,000 households in Hillsborough, Pasco, and Pinellas counties to require emergency assistance during Thanksgiving and Christmas. Dr. Sarah Combs, president and CEO of Metropolitan Ministries, stated that rising household expenses are driving this increase in demand.
The organization plans to operate four main tents and nine pop-up sites to manage the distribution. To process the supplies, staff members must recruit 15,000 volunteers. Combs said the group is seeking both monetary donations and physical goods to ensure the tents open on time.
"We're looking for, not just individuals to come out and volunteer, but also to be able to donate those canned goods..and of course, monetary donations are.. be able to open our tents on time," Combs said.
Organizers identified canned goods, frozen hams, frozen turkeys, and toys for older children as the most critical needs. Families seeking assistance can register online, where potential volunteers and donors can also sign up before appointment slots fill.
The upcoming distribution drive follows a recent theft of supplies from the holiday tent site. Officials have not named suspects or announced arrests in connection with the incident. A previous report indicated the break-in caused approximately $50,000 in losses, though authorities have not disclosed the exact financial value of the stolen materials.
Corporate partner Florida Blue pledged support to help serve more than 150,000 meals in the tri-county area. The organization gathered this information from an interview with Dr. Sarah Combs and an official broadcast report on holiday operations.
Volunteers and donors can contribute through the online registration portal. The nonprofit aims to sustain operations despite the recent theft, relying on community support to meet the projected demand for food and gifts.
