Feeding Tampa Bay's Evolution, Expansion, and Evolving Strategy

David Kelly, the immediate past president, stepped in for our current club president, Rev. David Shelor, attending his daughter's college graduation this week.

Julie Scales introduced Stefanie Wertovitch, Development Officer and representative from Feeding Tampa Bay, who discussed the organization's commitment to philanthropy and its connection to other food banks in the area.

Feeding Tampa Bay's Evolution and Expansion

Stefanie discussed the evolution of Feeding Tampa Bay, from its inception as the Divine Providence Food Bank to its current status as a major food distributor in the region. She highlighted the organization's efforts to address food insecurity, including partnerships with healthcare providers and community organizations. Stefanie also mentioned the organization's new warehouse, which has increased their capacity to distribute food and provide additional services such as social work, legal services, and housing consultation. She emphasized the organization's shift from short-term solutions to long-term solutions and preventative programming. Stefanie also mentioned the organization's workforce development program, Fresh Force, which provides paid training in culinary arts, warehouse logistics, and trucking.

Feeding Tampa Bay's Evolving Strategy

Stefanie discussed the evolving strategy of Feeding Tampa Bay, which now includes a holistic approach to address hunger. She emphasized the importance of volunteers, with over 200 needed daily, and the impact of their investment. Stefanie also mentioned the new 215,000 square foot warehouse purchased through a $60 million capital campaign. She encouraged potential volunteers to visit the website and participate in sorting food, and mentioned that the Bistro provides free meals. Stefanie also addressed the recent cut in funding for fresh fruits and vegetables and the need to find new sources of funding.

Local Farmers and Upcoming Events

Stefanie discussed the importance of local farmers for their fresh produce, mentioning their relationship with them and the quality of the fruits and vegetables they receive. She also mentioned the upcoming Dunedin triathlon and her past work with Iron Man.