TAMPA, Florida — Demand for help is high this holiday season after back-to-back hurricanes hit Tampa Bay.
Metropolitan Ministries, which serves families in need throughout Tampa Bay, is asking for more help after seeing a 23% drop in donations compared to last year, stated Justine Burke, the non-profit's vice president of marketing and communications. At the same time, the number of registrations for help is estimated to be up 20%.
"Since the hurricanes, we've just seen a tremendous need. Many people that have never asked for help before are coming to us," Burke said.
Recent storms also delayed operations and a number of volunteers haven't been able to come out after being impacted by recent hurricanes themselves, Burke said.
The non-profit anticipated 30,000 families in need of support this holiday but added another 3,000 registration openings due to the higher volume of help this season.
Last week, three food drivers were helping to meet the non-profit's surging demand as Thanksgiving registration was already at 130% capacity.
Burke said the donations are more than just about providing basic needs but lifting the community's spirits.
Volunteers are there to walk those in need every step of the way. The ability to have a hot meal when one is experiencing loss can go a long way.
"Their expression changes as they go through the tent and you can actually see in many people that sigh of relief," Burke said.
Despite the need for more help, Burke said she's encouraged by the thought that more people will be able to come out and help them with their mission to serve the community.
"We're seeing people react. We're seeing people respond. We saw some donations come in today," Burke said. "There is still time to give if you haven't had the chance and you're able to. We would so appreciate it."
Needed items include frozen turkeys, hams, canned yams, bagged or box stuffing and cranberry sauce.
Also in high demand are bagged or canned beans, soup, bags of rice, boxed or canned potatoes, gravy packets, dessert mixes, canned fruit and vegetables and boxed macaroni and cheese.
You can visit the Metropolitan Ministries website for ways to help.