TAMPA, Fla. — Some areas of the Tampa Bay region still struggle with food insecurity, but a new partnership could help feed those in need.
Hillsborough County and Feeding Tampa Bay are partnering with a local organization to provide healthy and fresh food in Progress Village. The Grow My Giving Mobile Fresh Market truck will provide free fruits and vegetables twice a month through at least September.
"What's in my heart is just joy. Joy to see that I can partner with someone that sees my vision and make it happen," said Twanda Bradley, founder of Grow My Giving Incorporated.
Bradley launched the organization at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, she said she lacked the funds to consistently provide support to those in need. That's why she reached out to others for support, including Commissioner Gwen Myers.
"Being with the county and Feeding Tampa Bay made a big, big difference because I didn't have any more resources," Bradley said.
Bag after bag — and not a single one was taken for granted.
According to the county, the project is aimed to help underserved communities in the county. During each event, 100 households are expected to receive at least 10 pounds of fresh fruits or vegetables.
"We believe that if you have access to the resources you need, everyone can thrive," Thomas Mantz, CEO and president of Feeding Tampa Bay, said.
Giving back is in Bradley's roots.
She grew up in Progress Village, which is among Tampa's historic Black neighborhoods. She now serves as president of the Progress Village Civic Council, Inc.
Today, the community remains tight-knit but has grown with an even more diverse population, along with its surrounding communities, Bradley said. However, the need is ongoing including for seniors who were among the first to live in Progress Village.
"Some of the people that helped raise me, they're in need now and I see them in the line, so that makes me feel good that I can now help some of my elders," Bradley said.
Feeding Tampa Bay is also expanding with a larger facility that is slated to finish construction this year. Its goal is to end hunger in the region by 2025.
If you'd like to help out, visit this link.