Tampa Jewish Family Services (TJFS) recently unveiled a new food bank being offered at Brandon’s Congregation Beth Shalom, located at 706 Bryan Rd.
According to CEO Michael Barnett, the agency researched the need to expand its Counseling and Food Bank services in Brandon. TJFS leadership consulted with Access 211, United Way of Tampa Bay and documented numerous and ongoing client calls asking for food bank referrals in Brandon and eastern Hillsborough County.
The food bank is open the first Thursday of each month with a pick-up time from 1-4 p.m. for those needing assistance. The next pick up dates are Thursday, January 5, and Thursday, February 2. Appointments are required to ensure staff and food is in place. A form will need to be filled out over the phone. Call 960-1848 to make an appointment.
Emergency food bags are available Monday-Friday. Appointments are required for these as well.
For residents who would like to donate to the food bank, donations of non-perishable items such as canned tuna, peanut butter, canned fruits and vegetables, boxed cereals, crackers and cookies are needed. Drop off times are Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2-5 p.m.
Tampa Jewish Family Services is a 60-year-old organization offering counseling, food bank distribution, senior services, financial assistance, educational programming for families with children with special needs and other support and referral services. The agency’s mission is to deliver services in a manner consistent with Jewish values, for the purpose of strengthening individuals and families of all faiths.
Tampa Jewish Family Services’ main offices are located in Citrus Park at 13009 Community Campus Dr. in Tampa.
When asked how the connection between TJFS and Beth Shalom came about, Barnett explained, “Congregation Beth Shalom is a long-standing supporter of Tampa Jewish Family Services, and through this relationship an offer to house the agency’s satellite Community Food Bank developed.”
For more information, visit www.tjfs.org or call 960-1848.
