We know hunger is just one symptom of a deeper problem. Rising costs, limited access to healthcare and transportation, and stagnant wages are creating impossible choices for hardworking families. Our neighbors aren’t looking for handouts — they’re searching for stability, security, and health. And we’re redefining what it means to “feed Tampa Bay” to make that possible.
Understanding the Roots of Hunger
In 2021, we began a deep journey to uncover the systemic causes of hunger. Through community surveys, workshops, and over 150 studies, we learned that hunger often signals a broader financial crisis.
Some essential lessons shaped our path forward…
- Food alone will not solve hunger.
- Household financial instability, or the gap between responsibilities and available resources, is at the heart of the issue.
- Solutions start with the neighbor in need and build on each individual’s unique circumstances.
- Prioritizing intervention over prevention diverts resources from strategies that create long-term success.
- The social services system is insufficient, uncoordinated, and ineffective, perpetuating the need for support.
Our Pillars for Long-Term Change
Crafted through years of research and community collaboration, our four pillars reflect how we’re redefining what it means to feed our region — creating a future where every neighbor has pathways to stability, wellness, and dignity.
feeding solutions
Empowering neighbors through personalized support, job training, and educational opportunities that promote financial stability and self-sufficiency.
feeding wellbeing
Fostering healthy lives by integrating access to nutritious food, healthcare, and mental health resources.
feeding humanity
Cultivating dignity, compassion, and belonging — because every person deserves to be seen, respected, and supported.
feeding connections
Building strong partnerships across nonprofits, government, and businesses to create a coordinated, trustworthy support system.
Our Theory of Change
For too long, society has focused on emergency responses instead of long-term solutions. While intervention remains vital, prevention saves more lives — and resources — by addressing root causes before they grow.
Our programs now work on two levels:
- Interventive programs for today: providing food and immediate relief.
- Preventative programs for tomorrow: connecting families to sustainable support and opportunity.
By aligning these efforts, we’re helping families move from crisis to stability. Our goal is simple: to empower, not just serve. Together, we can build a Tampa Bay where hunger is not a symptom — but a solvable challenge.
Redefining What It Means To Feed
In 2024-2025, Feeding Tampa Bay provided products and services
valued at over $445 million, while donors of food, time, and funds
collectively contributed over $260 million in support.
