Disadvantaged families won’t have to worry about missing the holiday season this year.
Tampa Bay Network to End Hunger (TBNEH)—a local leader in hunger relief, research, and program development—has introduced its “Holidays on Wheels” initiative in partnership with Metropolitan Ministries to deliver a full holiday meal and gifts. Together, the two organizations work to serve the tri-county community with food for the holidays.
A press release says 300 volunteers will deliver items to families without working or reliable transportation. Families with vehicles can attend Metropolitan Ministries’ annual drive-thru Holiday Tent event, with tent locations in Tampa, Dade City, and Holiday.
"We are incredibly grateful to partner with the Tampa Bay Network to End Hunger to continue homebound deliveries this holiday season," said Tim Marks, Metropolitan Ministries president and CEO. "We're preparing to serve thousands of families, and many do not have access to transportation. Together with the Network the End Hunger, we can reach those facing immense hardship."
Registration for “Holidays on Wheels” is now open to families in Hillsborough, Pasco, and Pinellas counties with children ages 0-18. The head of household must pass a background check. Deliveries won’t be made unless the family is home. Other circumstances which may qualify someone for the boost include:
- Those who aren’t able to get a ride for life-sustaining trips: medical, grocery, work, job-related training/education
- Households led by adult with disability or illness
Deliveries happen between from 10 a.m.- 2 p.m; deliveries for Thanksgiving meals are on Tuesday, Nov. 17 and Wednesday, Dec. 16 (holiday meals and toys).
Register via the TBNEH website. The deadline for Thanksgiving delivery is Nov. 5 and Dec. 7 for the holidays. If you’re interested in helping, visit networktoendhunger.org to create an account and sign-up. Donations for “Holidays on Wheels” are being accepted at the moment. For more information on how to donate, call (813) 344-5837.
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This article appears in Oct 22-29, 2020.