Metropolitan Ministries holiday tent is ready to serve Bay Area families

Metropolitan Ministries CEO explains the need

Tim Marks talks with Jennifer Epstein about why the need for help is so great this year -- and what you can do to pitch in.

TAMPA, Fla. - Nearly one month ago, Metropolitan Ministries began constructing their big holiday tent in Tampa. Now, it’s ready to help thousands of families.

The tent is located on Rome Avenue near Columbus Drive. The organization said they are seeing above-average demand this year and are preparing to serve about 42,000 families in need.

Leaders at Metropolitan Ministries say this increase is due to the elongated effects of COVID-19, high food costs and supply chain shortages. They say they will need a million pounds of food along with 58,000 toys.

"The economic impact from the COVID-19 pandemic is disproportionately impacting under-resourced, high-poverty neighborhoods," according to the non-profit.

The tent will begin collecting donations Monday, Nov. 8.

Non-profits feeling the supply chain

Supply chain issues are not just causing grocery prices to shoot up. They're also putting a strain on local food banks, working to feed people in need.

If you’re interested in helping this year, you can volunteer. Volunteers help out at 12 different community sites: 3 in Pasco County, 3 in Pinellas County, 6 in Hillsborough County.

Otherwise, you can donate. A list of drop-off locations can be found here.

If you're in need of assistance this holiday season, click here for more information.

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