In Tampa, Florida, Metropolitan Ministries is set to kick off its yearly holiday outreach initiative. On Monday, the organization will open its holiday tents to extend support to families in need throughout the Tampa Bay area.

According to the organization, the demand for food assistance has seen a significant rise, with the number of families seeking help having doubled. Consequently, there is an urgent call for more volunteers to meet this increased demand.

Officials from the non-profit attribute this surge in need to several factors, including escalating housing costs, the lasting financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, recent hurricanes, and the effects of the ongoing government shutdown.

“Families will receive a complete turkey along with other supplies for their holiday meals, and when Christmas approaches, there are toys available for their children too,” explained Christine Long, who serves as the executive vice president and chief programs officer at Metropolitan Ministries.

Long highlighted that the opening of the holiday tents marks the beginning of a season where families can access a variety of holiday essentials, offering them some relief during this festive time.

“It’s an opportunity for families who maybe are struggling to really get some of those basic needs met and make their holiday full of hope and love,” Long said.

Holiday tents will open for donations and assistance Monday across Hillsborough, Pasco, and Pinellas counties.

Along with donors and collaborating partners, Metropolitan Ministries says the effort will rely on 15,000 volunteers, one million pounds of food, 60,000 toys and gift cards, and broad community support to meet the growing need.

Long said registration slots are filling up fast.

“Registering ahead of time is critical. As a matter of fact, our registration is filling up extremely fast. I heard that we only have a couple more days left of slots for Thanksgiving,” she said.

Long adds families can register both in person or through the organization’s website which can be found here.