The sky over Rowlett Park in Tampa, Florida was completely overcast
and the wind was chilly. This didn't stop over 850 volunteers from coming out
shortly after day break to help with Operation Blessing's 7th annual Supper Bowl
last Saturday! Some helped with unloading over 120,000 pounds of food off of four
Hunger Strike Force semi trucks.
As an officially sanctioned event of the Super Bowl XXXV Task Force, community
support was strong. With the help of local partner Somebody Cares Tampa Bay and
150 other organizations and churches, OBI was able to give 9,800 bags filled with
items including potatoes, onions, salad, cereal, canned vegetables, and pasta
to families living in low and no income situations.
"I really wanted to do something helpful," commented 15-year-old Kara, as she
put boxes of pasta in bags. Her work partner and friend 13-year-old Amy said,
"I've always wanted to touch lives."
In addition to getting groceries, adults enjoyed live musical entertainment, received
free medical screenings, picked out free clothing and watched their children laugh
with clowns and learn the basics of baseball, basketball and football from former
professional athletes. "It's great being here!," said former Harlem Globetrotter
Melvin Adams.
Having spread a blanket found in the Clothing Tent, Barbara, her three children
and mother made a day event of the Supper Bowl. As a single parent, , she finds
it hard to provide for her family. Looking at the bags of groceries and clothes
she relayed, "You all are doing a good job. It's such a blessing!"
Even in her low income situation, Barbara found a family in more need. Supper
Bowl was almost over when Lili came to Rowlett Park with her son and a few friends,
hoping she didn't come too late. Grateful for a few remaining sweet potatoes,
she turned to leave. Barbara approached and without hesitation gave Lili some
of her groceries and clothing!
Thanks to partners like you, approximately 15,000 adults and children left the
Supper Bowl with arms laden with gifts and hearts full of joy!
HOW YOU CAN HELP
Every day, the fleet of Hunger Strike Force trucks are on the road, delivering nutritious food and essential supplies to thousands facing hunger and poverty. With your help, we can continue to impact lives and give hope to those who need it most. Consider making an online donation today.
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2012
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