TAMPA, Fla. — Local nonprofits are reminding people that they are in need on this Giving Tuesday.
Due to the pandemic, nearly all nonprofits are running out of food, clothes and money.
“It’s getting tough for a lot of organizations,” said Thomas Mantz, the CEO and President of Feeding Tampa Bay.
Mantz said Feeding Tampa Bay has “probably provided 60 million meals” to families across the 10 counties they serve. About three years ago, they fed about 40 million families for the whole year.
Smaller organizations, like the Community Pantry, are feeling the impact as well.
“We are going to serve as long as we have volunteers to help, and food,” said Monica Wilson, the director of the Community Pantry.
Some nonprofits are on the brink of closing because they’re running out of money and donations.
The other issue impacting these organizations is the Cares Act ending on December 31.
“That’s critically important,” said Mantz.
The Cares Act provides funds to help nonprofits with the increased need, helps farmers and helps families with unemployment benefits due to COVID-19.
“That’s a big clip that we’re all getting ready to go over if another stimulus plan isn’t passed,” said Mantz.
So, while they’re waiting to see if the leaders will vote on another stimulus plan, on this Giving Tuesday, they’re asking the community to give what they can.
If you can’t afford to donate, Mantz suggests volunteering.
“We can always use volunteers,” he said.
Nonprofits have taken the necessary steps to make sure all volunteers are COVID-19 safe.
“They’re gloved, they’re masked, and they’re socially distanced,” said Mantz.
