UPDATE: Metropolitan Ministries is urgently launching its annual holiday outreach by opening holiday tents across the Tampa Bay region starting Monday. This initiative comes as the demand for food assistance has doubled, driven by soaring housing costs, ongoing financial struggles post-pandemic, recent hurricanes, and the government shutdown.
As families face unprecedented challenges, Metropolitan Ministries is calling for more volunteers to support their critical mission. “They receive the whole turkey and supplies for their family, and when Christmas rolls around, they get toys for their kids as well,” explained Christine Long, Executive Vice President and Chief Programs Officer of the organization.
The holiday tents serve as a lifeline for families struggling to meet basic needs. Long emphasized, “It’s an opportunity for families who maybe are struggling to really get some of those basic needs met and make their holiday full of hope and love.”
The tents will open for donations and assistance in **Hillsborough, Pasco, and Pinellas counties**. Metropolitan Ministries anticipates needing **15,000 volunteers**, **1 million pounds of food**, and **60,000 toys and gift cards** to meet the escalating demands of the community.
IMPORTANT: Families are urged to register as slots are filling up rapidly. Long stated, “Registering ahead of time is critical. I heard that we only have a couple more days left of slots for Thanksgiving.” Registration is available both in person and online via the organization’s website.
As the holiday season approaches, the need for community support has never been greater. Metropolitan Ministries is counting on the generosity of donors and collaborative partners to ensure that families in need receive essential supplies and holiday joy.
With the holiday tents opening shortly, the organization encourages everyone to participate in this vital outreach effort. Your support can make a significant difference in the lives of many families this season.
