CUTLER BAY, Fla. — Did you know one in six South Floridians experiences food insecurity? That’s roughly 16 percent of the population.
It’s why every year; Local 10 News raises awareness about this critical issue through our Food for Thought campaign.
As September is Hunger Action Month, Local 10 is highlighting local nonprofits feeding the need.
As co-founder and executive director of Bridge to Hope, Vanessa Tinsley knows her numbers. She also knows her people.
“These are working people. These are senior citizens and families with children that are in these food lines. And today we serve over 100,000 people and the need is growing.”” said Tinsley.
In nearly four decades of service, Tinsley has only seen the food lines get longer. She attributes the growth to the lack of affordable housing, underemployment, family emergencies and most recently, cuts to government food programs.
63-year-old Tangie Davis is raising four grandchildren. Bridge to Hope makes it possible for her to put healthy food on the table.
“I can come here and be happy and get the meat. They make me feel good and I thank them for everything they do for me and my family,” said Davis.
Bridge to Hope is more than the name of the organization. It represents a defining time in Vanessa’s life when she was in desperate need of hope and healing.
“I came home one day from a conference. I took my children with me, and we got back my husband was gone. And we just began to spiral down into poverty,” said Tinsley.
At the time, the food pantries Tinsley frequented could not meet her needs.
“I just had enough to feed the children and not even to feed them well,” said Tinsley.
So, she started sourcing her own food and eventually helped other families. Now, from a 3,000 square foot warehouse, the organization serves bountiful, nutritious food.
Inspired by Tinsley’s story, Local 10’s Food for Thought collaborated with Publix to donate hundreds of food and household items.
“As an associate, it just makes us so proud to know we are not only making the difference right here but actually be part of it and volunteer with them,” said Lindsey Willis, Publix Media Relations Manager.
And with every visit here, families are certain to see hope within reach and personified.
in addition to food, Bridge of Hope offers cooking and nutrition classes, workforce development programs and health services.
It relies on donor partners and volunteers to sustain its work.
For more information on how to help, click on this link.
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