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. September marks Hunger Action Month, a nationwide movement aimed at raising awareness about hunger and inspiring people to take action.
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.
Today, food insecurity continues to rise as the cost-of-living increases. From higher grocery prices to growing housing and utility costs, families are often forced to make difficult choices between paying bills or buying food.
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 19,306 households, 8,182 children and 77,759 family members with 1,026,515 pounds of food—more than 513 tons,” 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 Hunger Action Month comes to a close, we challenge you to continue standing with us in the fight against hunger. Whether you give, volunteer or advocate, your involvement helps ensure that every family in our community has access to the nutrition they need to thrive. Together, we can reduce the burden of food insecurity and build a stronger, healthier future for all!