The Mayors’ Feed the Hungry Program coordinates with 34 non-profit agencies in communities throughout Manatee and Sarasota counties. Provided by MFTHP
The Mayor’s Feed the Hungry Program is launching a new fundraising project to help reinvigorate the organization, which has been struggling with increasing operating costs and diminishing donations over the past few years.
The new project will help MFTHP cover expenses and strengthen its ability to serve the needs of communities in Sarasota and Manatee counties while providing real-world training opportunities for future leaders in philanthropy. The project is made possible with support from The Patterson Foundation in collaboration with the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy.
“With the high cost of basic necessities and the effects of inflation on the economy, MFTHP is experiencing a crisis – our expenses are up and donations are down,” said Scott Biehler, executive director of the Mayors’ Feed the Hungry Program. “We issued a call to action to our communities, businesses and community organizations to lend a helping hand, and The Patterson Foundation responded.”
The Patterson Foundation is sponsoring a student intern from Lilly Family School of Philanthropy who will assist with fundraising efforts and with a variety of other tasks, including the development of a long-term strategy to advance MFTHP.
“Philanthropy is a strategic and creative process. By involving high-achieving university students who are eager to make a difference in communities worldwide using their skills and enthusiasm, we can achieve multiple goals on various fronts,” said Debra Jacobs, president of the Patterson Foundation.
Since 1987, the Mayors’ Feed the Hungry Program has distributed more than 650 tons of food and $4.4 million in food assistance to families and individuals in need. Implemented by former Sarasota Mayor Fredd Atkins, MFTHP is endorsed by the Anna Maria Mayor; Bradenton Mayor; Bradenton Beach Mayor; Holmes Beach Mayor; Longboat Key Mayor; North Port Mayor; Palmetto Mayor; Sarasota Mayor; Manatee County Commission Chair; and Sarasota County Commission Chair.
LWR festival joins partnership
The Lakewood Ranch Blues Festival is partnering with the Mayors’ Feed the Hungry Program for the inaugural event in December at Waterside Place.
Through the partnership, guests are encouraged to bring nonperishable food items to drop off at the gate. The LWRBF also will donate a portion of proceeds to help support the mission and operations of the Mayors’ Feed the Hungry Program.
For more information about the Lakewood Ranch Blues Festival, including ticket sales, lineup announcements, and sponsorship opportunities, visit lakewoodranchbluesfestival.com or email [email protected].
Submissions by Scott Biehler and Kristina Sparacino