An occasional series focusing on non-profit organizations supported by Quikstone staff

Even before the pandemic hit, more than 35 million Americans were either unable to purchase enough food to meet their needs or unsure where their next meal might come from.

During the past eight months, the coronavirus pandemic has significantly worsened that problem. An analysis by the Brookings Institution in June found that 13.9 million children lived in a household without enough food. A separate study by researchers at Northwestern found food insecurity has more than tripled among families with children to 29.5%.

Churches, community groups, and not-for-profit organizations have stepped up to help, but now the need threatens to become overwhelming as the holidays approach. Two of those non-profit organizations, Metropolitan Ministries and Feeding Tampa Bay, are reaching out for volunteers, donations, and corporate partnerships.

Last year Metropolitan Ministries provided food, shelter, and support to 32,000 individuals and families in the Tampa Bay area. That effort translated into nearly 2 million meals, and 20,000 families helped through outreach services.

Feeding Tampa Bay, part of the national Feeding America network, focuses on providing food to hundreds of thousands of families and individuals in the 10-county area of West Central Florida. Feeding Tampa Bay provided 65 million meals last year.

The staff of Quikstone Capital supports these groups by donating food and providing volunteer and financial assistance during their holiday campaigns. What opportunities exist in your community to help others? Helping those in need can bring a sense of belonging and feeling of thankfulness and gratitude not only during the holiday season but all year long.