Thursday, March 20, 2025
Hello Friends,
March is National Nutrition Month, a time to focus on the importance of healthy eating and making informed food choices. The Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA has been championing this effort with the Veggie Van standing out as a key resource. The Veggie Van - A Mobile Marketplace, serves communities that often struggle with food access, especially those in food deserts. In 2024 alone, the Veggie Van distributed an impressive 162,628 pounds of food, providing 128,729 meals to kids, seniors and families in need.
This initiative is more than just food distribution; it’s a way to bring fresh, nutritious options directly to those who may not have easy access to a grocery store. By offering healthy food choices, the YMCA’s Veggie Van helps improve the well-being of many Tampa residents who face food insecurity.
National Nutrition Month serves as a reminder that good nutrition is crucial for a healthy life, and the YMCA’s Veggie Van program plays a critical role in promoting these values. With each delivery, the community is empowered to make healthier food choices, contributing to a stronger, healthier Tampa community.
A stronger community was certainly front and center recently in Tallahassee at the YMCA State Advocacy Days. The meetings offered a unique chance to connect with state public officials at the Florida State Capitol, helping amplify our collective voice on raising awareness about the YMCA’s mission as well as key issues affecting the well-being of the communities we serve. It was inspiring to see youth advocates from across the state work together on important issues like drowning prevention and youth literacy.
The Florida State Alliance of YMCAs plays an important role in this effort. With a workforce of 25,000 full and part-time employees, 2,500 seasonal staff, and 281,100 volunteers engaged annually, it’s clear how large an impact the Alliance has on our state. In 2024, Florida YMCAs provided over $33 million in financial assistance for memberships and programs. This highlights how the YMCAs not only serve as community pillars but also act as an economic engine in the state. Through their outreach, programs and workforce, Florida YMCAs are vital to the success of both individuals and communities, helping to build a healthier, more connected Florida.
Finally, March is Women's History Month, a time to celebrate and honor the incredible contributions women have made throughout history. It’s also a time to recognize the outstanding women who continue to shape our communities today. At the YMCA, we are grateful for the phenomenal women volunteers and staff whose dedication and passion make our work possible. From helping members achieve their goals to leading afterschool programs, serving on boards and providing strategic direction and raising funds to ensure everyone can have a great Y experience, these women give so much of themselves. Your wisdom, strength and compassion are felt in everything you do and inspire those around you. You elevate the work we do, making us better every day, and we are incredibly thankful for your commitment to our mission. Your leadership not only shapes the YMCA but also makes a lasting impact on the lives of everyone we serve.
This month, we take the opportunity to celebrate you and all that you contribute. Thank you for your hard work, your vision and the difference you make in our communities. Your efforts are truly invaluable and do not go unnoticed. We are lucky to have you as part of our team and we look forward to continuing this journey together.
With appreciation,
Matt Mitchell
President & CEO
813.224.9622