TAMPA, Fla. – Over 300 of Tampa’s homeless, disabled and homeless veterans, battered women, and people in recovery will be fed this week for the holidays.
The events are spearheaded by Rocky Rochford. Rochford is a retired U.S. Navy Captain who ran for U.S. House District 14. He said, “Once you see how good it feels to help someone else less fortunate, you won’t stop doing it.”
He teamed up with non-profit “Somebody Cares Tampa Bay,” led by Pastor Daniel Bernard. The organization is a network of independent, community-based non-profit organizations conducting outreach and support for people in need.
Rochford said, “They provided funds to help with my events’ dinner hams, which are accompanied with yellow rice, green beans, pasta soup, breads and other goodies.”
READ: Free Event In Tampa Helps Job Seekers Prepare For New Careers In 2025
Rochford coordinated clothing purchases that have been made through Bombas, an online cart company that gives a free item of anything bought. Large supplies purchased for Tampa’s needy include items such as socks, underwear and T-shirts.
“We also have pallets of pillows and blankets that will be passed out at the dinners along with the clothes,” said Rochford.
The first event will be Wednesday, December 18, at New Beginnings of Tampa located at 1410 East Chilkoot Avenue. The faith-based organization provides emergency shelter and transitional housing for veterans. Dinner will be served at 5 p.m.
The second event will be Thursday, December 19, at Pearlena’s Adult Activity Center located at 9309 North Florida Avenue, Suite 101. Dinner will be served at 5 p.m.
The third event will be Friday, December 20, at Good Samaritan Inn located at 3302 North Florida Avenue. Dinner will again be served at 5 p.m.
Donations by phone or text can be made to support three dinner events by calling (786) 223-4653.
Donors are also encouraged to bring their choice of contributions to the dinners and give their gifts directly to those in need.
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Connect with us: Follow the Tampa Free Press on Facebook and Twitter for breaking news and updates.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox.