MARCH 24, 2026
Over the past three weeks, our food pantry has been facing a serious shortage of meat. This has made it increasingly difficult to provide balanced and nourishing meals for the many families who depend on us week after week. For many of these households, the support they receive from our pantry is not just helpful, it is essential.
We are reaching out to our parish community with a heartfelt appeal to your generosity with your help, we can continue to serve those in need with dignity and care.
There are three meaningful ways you can support our efforts:
- Donate meat directly: Fresh or frozen contributions are greatly appreciated and will go directly to the families we serve.
- Make a financial donation: Monetary gifts allow us to purchase meat and ensure a steady supply when donations run low.
- Connect us with resources: If you know of any organizations, businesses, or groups willing to donate meat, please help us establish those connections.
Together, as a community rooted in faith and service, we can overcome this challenge and continue to be a source of hope and nourishment for our neighbors in need.
Thank you for your continued kindness and support.
ONGOING:
Thanks to your generosity each week, we are able to sustain and strengthen the vital outreach services provided through Santa Maria Mission. Your donations of canned goods and other non-perishable items support two important efforts:
First, some of these items are used to prepare bags for our homeless neighbors — with ready-to-eat foods that do not require cooking.
Second, your contributions help us supplement the food pantry boxes we provide to more than 120 families in need.
We invite you to consider donating any of the items listed below. Donations may be placed in the collection bins located in the church foyer or parish hall, or you may coordinate directly with our Mission Manager for drop-off.
Every item makes a difference. Please give what you can — together, we nourish both body and spirit in our community!
If you have any questions or would like to volunteer, please contact Hector Amortegui (813) 961-1061 or email us smmission@stmarytampa.org
· Canned vegetables and Canned fruit
· Canned Tuna or Chicken
· Canned Ravioli or Spaghetti / Tomato sauce
· Canned soups
· Peanut butter
· Rice / Pasta
· Lentils
· Macaroni & cheese
· Powdered milk
· Vegetable oil
· Flour / Sugar / Salt / Basic spices (garlic powder, chili powder)
· Tea / Coffee
Diapers – Size 4, 5, 6
Your generosity makes a real difference!