Clearwater, Fla. — October 31, 2025 — Pinellas Community Foundation (PCF) is deploying $150,000 in emergency funding to support local food banks and pantries responding to a surge in neighbors seeking help. The action follows reports from partner agencies of increased demand tied to ongoing economic pressures and federal funding disruptions.
“Private philanthropy cannot replace government funding,” said Duggan Cooley, CFRE, CEO of Pinellas Community Foundation. “This is not about substituting for public responsibility. In moments like this, we act to stabilize. Our goal is to help local systems and families hold on until public functions resume.”
Disrupted Benefits
Nearly 97,000 Pinellas residents — about ten percent of the county — receive SNAP benefits. Even a brief disruption can send thousands of families to food programs. Federal employees and contractors living in our community can also face immediate impacts when paychecks pause. PCF’s funding is designed to strengthen the local network that helps people bridge short-term gaps.
Emergency Awards
Planned emergency awards, up to $150,000 total, include:
- St. Petersburg Free Clinic – South Pinellas distribution hub and “We Help FRESH” market supporting partner pantries and direct service.
- Hope Villages of America (RCS) – Mid-County food bank with warehouse capacity and logistics support for multiple sites.
- FEAST Food Pantry – North Pinellas access point serving families through a strong volunteer network.
- Gathering of Women – South Pinellas services with a focus on homebound seniors and high-need neighborhoods.
- Florida Dream Center – Central corridor mobile outreach and neighborhood-based delivery for working families.
- Tarpon Springs Shepherd Center – Northern coverage with supply to smaller partner pantries.
- Dunedin Cares – Primarily volunteer pantry expanding to meet steady increases in demand.
- Mattie Williams Neighborhood Family Center – Family resource hub offering pantry and wraparound supports.
- Oldsmar Cares – Community pantry serving working families and seniors in Northeast Pinellas.
Grant partners will use funds based on local circumstances, including purchasing food and expanding hours. These grants will reinforce the countywide food network, enabling distribution hubs and neighborhood pantries to reach households quickly.
How Pinellas Community Members Can Help Now
You can help by becoming a donor for the Helping Pinellas Now Fund, where you can make an impact on lives in Pinellas County. Residents can also support this response by volunteering with a nearby, asking agencies about direct item needs and considering cash donations so nonprofits can act quickly where needs are greatest.
About Pinellas Community Foundation
Pinellas Community Foundation is a 501(c)(3) public charity that brings philanthropy and solutions together to improve quality of life in Pinellas County. PCF connects people and resources, invests in what works, and shares what we learn so neighbors can thrive. Discover more about Pinellas Community Foundation.
Ready to Make a Difference in Pinellas County?
Whether you’re passionate about supporting local causes, creating lasting impact, or simply want to give back in a meaningful way, Pinellas Community Foundation is here to help you make it happen.
Email: giving@pinellascf.org
Call: 727-306-3142
Learn more: pinellascf.org/donor-advised-fund
Connect with PCF today — and turn your generosity into lasting change.
