Hillsborough County’s Healthy Living Program Teams Up with Feeding

As the festive season swings into full gear, not everyone is feeling the holiday spirit, especially those grappling with the stress of food insecurity. But there’s some respite on the horizon for Hillsborough County residents, as the county’s Healthy Living Program steps up to the plate. In partnership with Feeding Tampa Bay, the program is set to host food pantry events designed to ensure that residents can add a touch of celebration to their holiday tables without the burden of an empty stomach.

With an eye on providing more than just temporary aid, the initiative seeks to truly support health and wellness among locals. Not only are food packages doled out—brimming with fresh produce, meats, and pantry staples—they’re dished out monthly, with an extra helping hand extended in November and December. Anyone aged 18 or over, regardless of income level, can avail themselves of these services, confirming that the program is keenly aware of the need to make good nutrition accessible to all.

Upcoming food distribution events, as detailed on the Healthy Living Program’s website, are scheduled for next Thursday at the Lee Davis Healthy Living Center and next Friday at both the Plant City and SouthShore Healthy Living Centers. These events are open to the public and serve as a cornerstone of the assistance offered by the Healthy Living Program.

This holiday season, the program is determined to make sure that support doesn’t just stop at the distribution of food. They are rolling out an array of services, including free access to exercise rooms and group fitness classes. Nutrition consultations and monthly classes are also on the menu at four Healthy Living Centers situated around the county. Residents in need of such services can simply drop by or call the Healthy Living Program for more information.

But the network of support extends further. Resources such as ECHO, the United Food Bank of Plant City, and the St. Anne Catholic Church Food Pantry are also on hand, providing essential food and clothing assistance across Hillsborough County.