The YMCA is a leading nonprofit dedicated to strengthening children, families and seniors in our community through transformational programs and innovative community partnerships. One of the ways we fulfill this mission is by addressing food insecurity, an issue that continues to grow as many families navigate rising costs of living.
At the James P. Gills YMCA, we recognize the vital role the Y plays in supporting our neighbors through both challenging and hopeful times. In March 2020, at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the James P. Gills YMCA began a partnership with Feeding Tampa Bay to distribute free, fresh and nutritious produce weekly to families in need. What began as a response to a crisis has grown into a lasting lifeline for the community.
This month, as we embrace the Thanksgiving season, our commitment to nourishing families feels especially meaningful. The holidays can place added strain on households already struggling to afford groceries, utilities and other basic needs. Understanding these challenges, Michael Whitten, Executive Director at the James P. Gills YMCA, shares, “We are continuing the drive as it meets the needs of our community. Families continue to come who need help with providing food. Within our partnership with Feeding Tampa Bay, we are part of a focused pantry group that supports families assisted by BayCare. I envision this food drive continuing until we see that there is no longer a need and families are no longer showing up each month.”
Currently, the food distribution takes place twice a month and is open to all YMCA staff, members and the general public. The effort is entirely volunteer-driven and volunteer-led. “With the strength of our volunteers, we have served over 19,306 households, more than 8,182 children and 77,759 family members with 1,026,515,” Michael adds. “Since starting the drive, we have had over 5,000 volunteer hours in service of strengthening our community through the food drive.”
As we prepare for Thanksgiving, we invite you to join us in helping ensure every family has access to nutritious food for a warm and meaningful holiday meal. Whether you give, volunteer or help spread the word, your involvement brings comfort, dignity and hope to our neighbors. Together, we can uplift families this season and continue building a stronger, healthier community for all.