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As economic challenges deepen and federal assistance programs face significant cuts, communities across the nation are grappling with a surge in food insecurity. The Community Food Bank (CFB), which is now Feeding Tampa Bay’s Regional Distribution Organization (RDO) for Citrus, Hernando, and Sumter counties, is seeing unprecedented demand in the need for food assistance. Working families and individuals are finding it harder than ever to put meals on the table. In response to this growing crisis, the CFB is urgently calling on residents, businesses, and organizations to consider becoming a hunger hero by offering donations and support.

“Recent economic challenges have profoundly affected our local communities, exacerbating food insecurity at an alarming rate,” explains Barbara Sprague, CEO/Executive Director of the CFB. “Job losses, rising living costs, and reduced wages have left many families struggling to put meals on the table. As expenses for essentials like housing, utilities, and healthcare continue to climb, less money is available for nutritious food, pushing more individuals and households into hunger.”

Compounding this issue are recent cuts to federal assistance programs that many vulnerable families rely on for support. These reductions have created a widening gap between the growing need for food aid and the resources available to meet it.

“We are now witnessing unprecedented demand, and early projections indicate at least a 30% increase in individuals who will need food assistance in the coming months,” says Sprague. “The strain on the CFB and our 75+ partner agencies is immense, thus the critical need for increased donations and support to sustain our efforts in providing essential nourishment to those who need it most.”

The CFB serves as a vital lifeline, providing nourishing food to more than 120,000 individuals in need each month. The surge in demand has significantly strained the CFB’s resources, and without immediate support, the organization risks falling short in meeting the basic needs of our neighbors.

“Without urgent action, the ripple effects of economic hardship will continue to deepen food insecurity, impacting the health and well-being of countless individuals across our communities,” explains Sprague.

Community Food Bank (CFB) is proud to announce it has been named the Regional Distribution Organization (RDO) for Feeding Tampa Bay in Citrus, Sumter, and Hernando Counties. This significant partnership will expand access to vital food resources for families facing food insecurity throughout the Nature Coast.

As the RDO, Community Food Bank will be responsible for managing the distribution of food and other resources provided by Feeding Tampa Bay to partner agencies within Citrus, Hernando, and Sumter Counties. This streamlined approach will improve efficiency and effectiveness in getting food to those who need it most.

“This new role not only underscores the Community Food Bank’s commitment to combating food insecurity but also enhances our capacity to efficiently distribute nutritious meals to thousands of families in need throughout the region,” explains Barbara Sprague, CEO/Executive Director of the CFB. “By serving as a vital link in the supply chain, the CFB is set to expand its reach, streamline operations, and foster greater collaboration among local partners—all with the shared goal of ensuring no one in these communities goes hungry.”

According to Sprague, this expanded role is expected to bring additional resources and opportunities to the CFB’s flagship of Citrus County.

“We’re staying true to our roots, while still reaching out to additional neighbors in need. This is going to be a win-win-win for everyone,” says Sprague.

“As a long time and trusted partner, transitioning the Community Food Bank to support the counties of Citrus, Sumter ,and Hernando will significantly amplify the support available,” said Rhonda Gindlesperger, Chief Operating Officer, Feeding Tampa Bay. “Together we will ensure our neighbors have access to the vital resources they need, right where they need them, which embodies what it means to build stronger, more resilient communities.”

Want to become part of the movement to continue to End Hunger and Nourish Hope in 2025? Connect with us to learn more about the CFB and how your donation and/or volunteer support can make an impact.

Don’t miss one of the most anticipated events in the Nature Coast! The inaugural Too Broke for Sturgis Rally features food, music, workshops, daily rides, and fun, fun, fun! This first-time annual event will be held at the gorgeous new Stillwater Preserve RV Resort in Homosassa. Come for the day, or bring your favorite camping rig and gear (tent, motorhome, pop-up, etc.) and stay at one of the Stillwater Preserve RV Resort’s premier full-hook up sites.

• Day passes are only $10.

• Enjoy live music from popular local bands including Bottom’s Up, Hattrick, and the David Dicks Band.

• Numerous sponsor opportunities, including vendor booths and food truck spaces available.

Join us for the day, stay the night, or become a sponsor.

Call 352-327-3863 for more information or to book your spot today!

Inaugural Too Broke for Sturgis Rally

August 8^th and 9^th

Stillwater Preserve RV Resort

2862 S. MacArthur Ter

Homosassa, FL 34448

A portion of the proceeds benefit the Community Food Bank. Download or View Event Flyer

The Community Food Bank (CFB) is so grateful to our neighbors in Walden Woods who donated 203 pounds of food and various personal hygiene supplies. This is a prime example of neighbor helping neighbor, as these supplies and food will be used to nourish our neighbors in need throughout the summer. THANK YOU to everyone in the Walden Woods community for your generous support!

Pictured from left to right: Polly Worf, Walden Woods Senior Community Manager; Tom Stein, Maintenance Manager; and Barbara Sprague, CEO/Executive Director of the CFB.

The Sugarmill Woods Civic Association recently donated funds to cover the purchase of an additional electric pallet jack which will enable the Community Food Bank (CFB) to continue to deliver critical food relief to our neighbors in need. Special thank you to this wonderful group who always answers the call to support the CFB in our mission to End Hunger and Nourish Hope throughout the Nature Coast.