Update 4/7/20: Community Food Bank Update – The health and safety of our clients and staff is our number one priority. Out of an abundance of caution we have made the decision to accept monetary donations only and will temporarily stop accepting food items for our Community Food Bank.
We are continuing to serve our Community Food Bank clients and any Tampa Bay community members in need of food. Our normal operations for providing food remain in place. In fact, with minor adjustments, all our services continue to be offered. All donations can be made online through our website. Thank you for your support!
Monetary and Community Food Bank Support Especially Important At This Time of Increased Need
March 20, 2020, TAMPA – Tampa Jewish Family Services is working diligently to ensure that the agency is able to continue to serve those in need during the current global pandemic. While practicing social distancing and making adjustments to prioritize the health and wellness of staff and clients, TJFS continues to offer food assistance through the Community Food Bank, psychological therapy and counseling, financial assistance and more. They do, however, have an increased need for support to ensure their ongoing provision of services.
“We have been working around the clock to make sure we’re able to continue serving our clients and the community,” said Dr. Beth Ann Gemunder, TJFS CEO. “Our Community Food Bank continues to run as usual with minor modifications, and we will be offering therapy online via telemedicine. Unfortunately, we’ve not only had an increased need at this time (and anticipate that this will only grow), but we have also had to postpone our major annual fundraiser, Trifecta, which means that more than ever we could use donations and support from those in the community.”
Community Food Banks Operations with Minor Drop-Off Modifications
The Community Food Bank continues to operate under normal hours and locations for food distribution, but because of the closure of both JCC campuses, we have had to alter drop-off instructions.
TJFS is now placing its donation bins outside of each JCC campus. Those who are dropping off donations can drive up to the security guard, who will guide them to the location of the drop-off box. They can then drive up, drop off their donations and leave.
“We want to make this as easy as possible, without needing to go inside, touch anything or get in close proximity with anyone,” said Dr. Gemunder. “It is very important that we continue to get donations so we can continue to serve our clients. The need for food and other support continue to increase every day due to the pandemic. We really need to rally the Tampa community to step up and help. ”
Donations hours for both campuses are Monday – Friday, 7:30 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. Needs include non-perishable food items, cleaning supplies, toilet paper and paper towels.
Donation Needs
TJFS’ first need is monetary donations. We will use these donations to provide our clients with food, financial assistance, counseling and more. This is the most effective and easiest way to help, as you can donate online without having to leave your home. Donations can be made at www.tjfs.org.