Archive for category: News

The Community Food Bank (CFB) announced today the grand unveiling of its new Trees of Life garden:

Monday, March 24^th

1:00pm

5259 W. Cardinal Street, Homosassa

The public is invited and encouraged to attend

The Trees of Life initiative is designed to engage the community in supporting food assistance initiatives by offering individuals and businesses an opportunity to give a gift that keeps on giving. Trees of Life sponsors leave a lasting legacy by purchasing fruit bearing trees that will be cultivated to provide nourishment to more than 70,000 individuals in Citrus, Hernando, and Sumter Counties who count on the CFB to feed themselves and their families.

The CFB will have an annual installation/planting every Spring. Each tree dedication will be planted with a customized plaque denoting the name of the sponsor or person/entity being honored. The honoree will receive a certificate and image of the tree and plaque, creating a lasting tribute to their generosity and commitment to fighting hunger.

Kent Rinker is the first Founding Patron for the Trees of Life garden. He donated $25,000 to get the garden started and pave the way for this exciting new initiative.

“I am a ‘snowbird’ and feel fortunate to be able to call Citrus County my home for about half of each year,” says Rinker. “Many years ago, I became acquainted with folks at the Community Food Bank and supported them through my involvement with the Black Diamond Foundation. While no longer on that board, I still feel strongly about what the Food Bank does and I am fortunate to be in a position where, personally, I can still help the agency try to fulfill their mission. When I heard about the Trees of Life program, I was immediately drawn into the concept of providing financial aid for current needs, while, at the same time, creating a legacy project that will eventually provide help for many years to come. To me it was a great idea and I was thankful that I was in a position where I could help get the project up and running.”

Barbara Sprague, CEO  / Executive Director of the CFB says the agency depends on the generosity and support of doners such as Rinker who hold the cause close to their hearts.

“We’re thrilled to unveil the Trees of Life garden,” says Sprague. “Trees of Life embodies our commitment to End Hunger and Nourish Hope throughout the Nature Coast. The garden serves as a symbol of hope, growth, and the power of community coming together to nourish our neighbors.”

The Trees of Life garden features lemon, apple, pear, peach, nectarine, and avocado trees, all carefully chosen for their adaptability to the local climate and for their nutritional value.

Future plans include the Trees of Life garden serving as an educational hub, offering hands-on learning opportunities for local schools and community groups. Participants will gain knowledge about sustainable gardening practices, healthy eating, and the importance of food access.

“Trees of Life will evolve to be more than just a garden, it will be a living laboratory for learning,” explains Sprague. “We would like to partner with schools, community organizations, and local residents to educate and inspire the next generation of food advocates.”

Tress of Life has sponsorship opportunities at numerous levels starting at $500. Learn more about becoming a Founding Patron, sponsoring a section of trees, or purchasing individual trees by visiting https://feed352.org/trees/.

The Community Food Bank (CFB) announced today that the Community Foundation of Tampa Bay furthered their investment in the Nature Coast by awarding the CFB with a $50,000 grant to support ongoing relief efforts for communities impacted by hurricanes Idalia, Helene, and Milton. This grant comes in addition to a $50,000 hurricane relief grant in October, boosting the Community Foundation of Tampa Bay’s investment in assisting Nature Coast families affected by recent hurricanes to a total of $100,000.

According to Barbara Sprague, CEO/Executive Director of the CFB, this additional donation will help ensure those who are still struggling in the aftermath of these devastating hurricanes receive access to nutritious food and vital resources as they rebuild their lives.

“The devastation caused by these storms has left many in our community facing immense challenges,” says Sprague. “We are committed to providing resources and support to those impacted, and this generous grant from the Community Foundation of Tampa Bay will help address the critical need for long-term food security and recovery resources in the wake of these disasters.”

The CFB plays a vital role in providing food assistance to low-income families, senior citizens, and individuals throughout the region. The CFB distributes food through a network of more than 60 partner agencies, including soup kitchens, food pantries, shelters, and other community-based organizations.

“This grant highlights the vital role of funding organizations like Community Food Bank who deliver essential services before, during, and after natural disasters,” explains Brandi Sanchez, Senior Director of Community Investment for the Community Foundation of Tampa Bay. “We are grateful for their work building resilience in this community”.

This $50,000 grant will support the CFB’s efforts to:

• Distribute food and other crucial supplies – this includes providing food boxes, fresh produce, and other essential items to families and individuals in need.

• Expand outreach and access to services – the CFB will work with partnering agencies to reach those most impacted by the storms, including those who may have never before accessed food assistance programs.

• Provide long-term support – this grant will help ensure that the CFB can continue to meet the ongoing and growing needs of those affected by the hurricanes.

“The need for food assistance continues to rise, especially in the wake of these devastating storms,” explains Sprague. “This donation allows us to continue providing essential food assistance to those who are still struggling to recover. We are grateful for the Community Foundation of Tampa Bay’s commitment to our community and their unwavering support in times of need.”

The Community Foundation of Tampa Bay is a non-profit organization that works to improve the quality of life in the Tampa Bay region through philanthropy and community leadership.  This donation is just one example of their ongoing commitment to supporting the needs of Nature Coast communities, particularly in times of crisis.

Want to become part of the movement to continue to End Hunger and Nourish Hope in 2025? If so, please visit https://www.feed352.org/ to learn more about the CFB and how your donation and/or volunteer support can make an impact.

About Community Foundation of Tampa Bay

Community Foundation Tampa Bay is a 501 (C)(3) public charity that connects people, ideas and resources to create meaningful, lasting impact. Across our region — Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, Hernando and Citrus counties — we are philanthropic partners, connectors and advisors. We understand our area’s most critical needs and champion solutions. Let us show you how to bring your giving to life as we work together to build a vibrant, prosperous community for all. For more information visit https://cftampabay.org/.

Linda Daly presents Community Food Bank Board Member Steve Hilsdon a check for $1000 on behalf of Daly & Zilch (Florida) and their employees.

The employees of Daly & Zilch (Florida) – General Contractors – spread some Christmas blessings and cheer by donating $1000 to help the Community Food Bank provide 10,000 meals to our neighbors in need. Your kindness, generosity, and blessings will be felt throughout the Nature Coast during Christmas and as we head into 2025. THANK YOU!!!

We can always count on our friends at the West Citrus Elks #2693 to come through to help feed their neighbors in need! They donated $5000 to the Community Food Bank which will be used to feed 50,000 throughout the Nature Coast. THANK YOU for your continued, generous support.

Pictured from left to right: Mike Floch, Leading Knight, Rick Jeroski, Chairman, Kris Estus, Treasurer, and Barbara Sprague, CEO/Executive Director of the Community Food Bank. Not pictured: Brian Estus Lodge Advisor.