Feed the Need - How an Act of Kindness has Grown into an Initiative to Provide Meals to Those in Need.

A simple act of kindness has evolved into a well-organized initiative to help provide nutritious meals to those in need.

Image courtesy Feed the Need (www.feedtheneedtampa.com)

NEW PORT RICHEY, Fla. - Feed the Need, a local charitable organization dedicated to providing nutritious meals to those in need on Thanksgiving day, warmly welcomes you to participate in their event on November 28, 2024, at one of their roadside venues in New Port Richey, Holiday, and St. Petersburg. This annual act of giving back to the community has grown over the years, and they look forward to carrying on this meaningful endeavor with your support.

Your presence on Thanksgiving will not only assist in serving hot meals but will also bring joy and hope to those who require it most. Let's unite and make a positive impact this Thanksgiving by embracing the spirit of generosity and appreciation.

Celebrating 5 Years of Giving

In 2020, Feed the Need founder and director - Jason Taylor underwent a significant shift in his approach to food waste after a disappointing family Thanksgiving gathering. This experience prompted him to alter his behavior by redistributing excess food to help those less fortunate. Together with his friends Kei & Tracy Bland and Lisa Albertus, Jason initiated a mission to create a beneficial influence through their acts of kindness.

Image courtesy Feed the Need (www.feedtheneedtampa.com)

Together, they set up a makeshift roadside kitchen at the bustling intersection of 34th St and Central Avenue in St. Petersburg, FL. Amidst the hustle and bustle of the city streets, they selflessly cooked food and distributed it to anyone who required a warm meal. What began as a humble initiative with just one grill and a small group of individuals blossomed into a full-fledged community effort over the course of five years.

Fast forward to the present day, this noble cause has expanded significantly. What started as a single act of kindness has now evolved into a well-organized operation involving four dedicated teams operating across four different locations. In addition to serving meals at fixed sites, the team also undertakes deliveries to tent cities, ensuring that their outreach extends to those in even the most remote and marginalized communities. Jason Taylor's simple yet profound decision to repurpose leftover food has not only made a tangible impact on reducing food wastage but has also touched the lives of countless individuals struggling with food insecurity.

Find a Feed the Need Location Nearest You

All Feed the Need locations set at 8am and go until the food is gone which is typically 2-3pm. 

Next to Keiser University, in downtown New Port Richey

📍6300 US-19, New Port Richey, FL 34652

The Florida Room NPR, in downtown New Port Richey

📍5742 Main St, New Port Richey, FL 34652

Ridge Road Shopping Center, in Port Richey

📍6620 Ridge Rd, Port Richey, FL 34668

 Winn Dixie Parking Lot, in Holiday

📍1640 US-19, Holiday, FL 34691

📍Downtown St. Petersburg at Central Ave and 34 St South

All locations participating in this initiative are dedicated to providing a warm and welcoming atmosphere for those in need during the holiday season. In addition to the delicious Turkey Day Dinners being served, there will be a thoughtful selection of beverages available to accompany the meal, ensuring that every guest can enjoy a satisfying and festive dining experience. Furthermore, the inclusion of essential items such as clothing and health aides like toothbrushes, soap, and toothpaste demonstrates a commitment to addressing not only hunger but also personal hygiene and well-being.

This holistic approach aims to support individuals in various aspects of their lives, promoting dignity and care for those who may be facing challenges. Through these offerings, the organizers seek to create a sense of community and compassion, spreading the spirit of generosity and kindness to all who attend.

In the years to come, Feed the Need will continue to be a beacon of light for those in need, inspiring others to join their noble cause and make a difference in the world. Their fifth-year milestone is a testament to the power of compassion and the transformative impact of coming together to support one another in times of need.

To learn more about Feed the Need and discover various opportunities to contribute and make a positive impact, we encourage you to explore the Feed the Need website at www.feedtheneedtampa.com.