500 Tampa families receive Thanksgiving meals through Bullard Family Foundation, Metro Ministries

Bullard Family Foundation feeds those in need

FOX 13's Regina Gonzalez explains how these community partnerships are helping one of Florida's most underserved zip codes.

TAMPA - Just days before Thanksgiving, hundreds of Tampa families lined up outside Sligh Middle Magnet — also known as the Thaddeus M. Bullard Academy — for a holiday meal they might not otherwise have.

For the sixth year in a row, the Bullard Family Foundation and Metropolitan Ministries teamed up to distribute 500 "Boxes of Hope," each packed with a full Thanksgiving meal, including a turkey or ham, fresh produce, and pantry staples.

This year’s event took on added weight as it unfolded in a neighborhood facing some of the most significant hardships in the state.

"It’s the sixth-highest zip code for children living in poverty in Florida," Thaddeus Bullard said. "For that to be happening right here in the Tampa Bay area, it’s ridiculous."

What they're saying:

Bullard — known worldwide as WWE Global Ambassador Titus O’Neil — says he sees himself in the families who pulled up today.

"I was once one of these kids, one of the families that would’ve been in this car line," Bullard recalled. "To now give back that dignity and love — not just during the holidays, but year-round — I’m truly blessed."

Big picture view:

Metro Ministries officials also say the need is rising across the region, especially as living costs continue to climb. The nonprofit is preparing for one of its largest holiday seasons ever, operating four distribution tents in Tampa, Pinellas, East Pasco, and West Pasco.

"To feed 33,000 families, it takes a million pounds of food, thousands of toys, and 15,000 volunteers," said Dr. Sarah Combs, the organization’s new President and CEO. "We still need hams, starches, desserts — and people willing to give their time."