TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — The candy aromas of Godiva truffles stuffed the air at Metropolitan Ministries’ vacation tent Sunday.
The long-lasting pink truck introduced treats for households and volunteers, however their actual present was a $25,000 donation to assist restock cabinets which were emptying quicker than ever.
“Particularly this 12 months, persons are saying that they’ve by no means needed to obtain assist earlier than, [but] at the moment are needing to obtain assist,” Brensey Thompson, director at Metro Ministries, stated.
For Brenda Gonzales, who misplaced her job and a survived each hurricanes, this assistance is giving her household one thing she thought was not possible.
“We had been hit by each hurricanes. The primary hurricane, Helene, broke our roof, after which Hurricane Milton brought on somewhat bit extra leakage injury,” Gonzales stated. “Sadly, I simply misplaced my place, you realize? So, that is truly giving my children the Christmas this 12 months.”
As the necessity surges, others are stepping in to present again. Amanda Holup stuffed her automotive with toys to carry to the tent.
“We have now had a superb 12 months. And I imply, I understand how exhausting it has been for everyone this 12 months between the hurricanes and simply the climate in Tampa,” Holup stated. “So we simply wish to unfold some love, unfold some pleasure and unfold some hope to the youngsters who want it.”
However the actuality is stark. With 34,000 households anticipated by the tip of the season, Metropolitan Ministries is looking on the group to assist refill the cabinets and restock hope.
The hurricanes did not simply flood houses, they flooded Metropolitan Ministries with requests for assist. Greater than 17,000 households have already signed up for meals and toys, and the clock is ticking for assist and your assist.
