COVID-19 Crisis Response

Community Food Bank, Feeding Tampa Bay Responding to Local Needs

First time users of food pantries and other community resources continues to steadily increase as people are furloughed or laid off from their jobs. The Community Food Bank (CFB) is ensuring the 50+ local food agencies served are fully stocked thanks to both individual and corporate donations as well as its partnership with Feeding Tampa Bay/Feeding America.

The CFB is sourcing food and picking it up daily. It is then sorted and packed for same or next day delivery to 53 agencies that serve those in need throughout Citrus County. Feeding Tampa Bay, a long-time partner of the CFB, is providing Citrus County with tens of thousands of pounds of food per week.

“The Community Food Bank is Feeding Tampa Bay’s largest partner in Citrus County and a fantastic one at that,” explains Rhonda Gindlesperger, Chief Operating Officer for Feeding Tampa Bay. “Through our partnership we are able to get more food to Citrus County agencies and residents in need than either of us could do alone. The Community Food Bank has been working hard to route trucks to Tampa for additional product pick up and we are also working to send trucks up to them as well. Working together has never been more critical as we find solutions for the evolving and increasing needs of our communities during this current crisis.”

“We are especially grateful to Feeding Tampa Bay as their support has played an integral role in helping us serve the needs of our community,” says Barbara Sprague, Executive Director of the CFB.

CFB Board Chair Mike Orlito states, “The need is only going to intensify. None of us really know what is coming down the pike. We’re preparing ourselves for sharp and long-term increases in people needing help.”

Those in need of food assistance can click here to locate a nearby food agency.

The CFB is in need of ongoing financial support to continue meeting the growing needs of the community. If you are able to donate, please click here or mail a check to Community Food Bank – 5259 W Cardinal Street Building B, Homosassa, FL 34446.