TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — The Tampa Bay Fashion Foundation (TBFF), a local nonprofit, is stepping up to support over 250 families this Thanksgiving by offering a unique grocery shopping experience.

Established in 2023, TBFF operates under the larger framework of the Tampa Bay Fashion Experience. The foundation was initiated by Taneka Bowles, who serves as both the Founder and CEO, with the aim of empowering individuals and families through a variety of community-focused initiatives. Over the past two years, TBFF has assisted more than 30,000 people and contributed over $250,000 to various organizations throughout the Tampa Bay area.

Currently, TBFF is preparing to launch their S.O.U.L Food Market, a complimentary grocery shopping event designed for more than 250 families living in the Silver Oaks Community. This community, which receives government housing assistance, has been a focal point for the organization’s charitable activities since the aftermath of hurricanes Helene and Milton.

“Initially, we just provided meals for them, but something struck me deeply during that visit,” Bowles reflected. “I realized we needed to delve deeper into the community’s needs beyond just the immediate ones.”

Following these hurricane relief efforts, TBFF introduced a six-week program specifically for the mothers residing in Silver Oaks, further extending their support to the community.

“We did everything from parenting training, budgeting, fire safety, cleaning and at the end of the program they became adopted nieces and we have been working with them ever since,” she said.

In one year, TBFF has conducted a summer meal and brook program for kids living in Silver Oaks, clothing drives, Christmas givebacks and much more. With many families receiving SNAP benefits and the recent government shut down, TBFF wanted to do something special for the families they support year-round. They’re launching their S.O.U.L. Food market, which stands for serving others and uniting lives.

“We decided to turn our studio into like a Publix grocery store for them,” Bowles said. “I want to make sure they understand they aren’t a charity. they’re people just like we are and we are just trying to lighten the load. We want to create community. Instead of just dropping the groceries off to them we created a market so they can do their grocery shopping and it feels like community.”

Bowles says she wants this to be a community initiative. TBFF is accepting grocery donations in preparation for the S.O.U.L Food Market. Below are the drop off details:

Donation Drop-Off & S.O.U.L Food Market Location:

TBFE Studios 8405 N Himes Ave Suite #101, Tampa, FL 33614

Thursday, November 20 & Friday, November 21st from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Saturday, November 22 & Sunday, November 23 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.