TAMPA, Fla. — Rev. Morris Hintzman, former CEO of Tampa-based Metropolitan Ministries, has died at the age of 82, the nonprofit stated in a news release.
Since 1982, Hintzman played a key role in the nonprofit's goal of helping Tampa's poor and homeless, according to Metropolitan Ministries' official website.
"For over four decades, he led Metropolitan Ministries with an unwavering commitment to helping those in need," officials stated in the release.
That unwavering commitment led to over 47 million meals served, 2.8 million nights of shelter provided and half a million families helped with holiday assistance and 2.2 million volunteer hours, according to the nonprofit.
In the release, Metropolitan Ministries President and CEO Tim Marks stated Morris was "a relentless advocate for the poor and homeless.
"It’s been my highest honor to be a small part of his legacy and witness the ripple effects of one man’s compassion and vision. He touched our community like no other, and we sorely miss him,” Marks stated.
The reverend's service earned him numerous awards, including the Tampa Bay Business Journal's Nonprofit CEO of the Year Award, the Tampa Bay Lightning Community Hero Award and more, according to Metropolitan Ministries.
In addition to his work with the nonprofit, Metropolitan Ministries officials stated Morris was also recognized as a "beloved pastor, mentor, and friend to many" in his community.
"Reverend Morris E. Hintzman’s legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched and the community he helped build," officials stated in the release. "May he rest in peace, knowing his work on Earth made a lasting difference."